Cheesy Taco Casserole A Family-Favorite Mexican Fiesta

Cheesy Taco Casserole: A Family-Favorite Mexican Fiesta

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Bring the fiesta to your kitchen with this Ultimate Cheesy Taco Casserole! A comforting blend of seasoned ground beef, crisp tortillas, melted cheese, and fresh toppings, this taco-inspired casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. The dish is simple to prepare and packs all the delicious flavors of a taco into one cheesy, layered bake. Customizable and crowd-pleasing, this casserole will become a family favorite in no time!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend: cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder)
  • 1 cup salsa or diced tomatoes (drained)
  • 1 can black beans (15 oz, drained and rinsed)
  • 1 can corn kernels (15 oz, drained)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
  • 8 small tortillas (flour or corn)
  • 1 small onion (diced)
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce (for garnish)
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (for garnish)
  • 1 jalapeño (sliced, optional)
  • Fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
  2. Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef (or turkey) until fully cooked. Drain excess grease. Add taco seasoning and 1/4 cup water, stirring until well combined. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens. Stir in salsa, black beans, corn, and diced onions. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.
  3. Layer the tortillas: In the greased casserole dish, place a layer of tortillas, cutting them to fit if needed. Spread half of the beef mixture evenly over the tortillas, followed by 1 cup of shredded cheese.
  4. Repeat layers: Add another layer of tortillas, the remaining beef mixture, and the remaining cheese on top.
  5. Bake the casserole: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Cool and garnish: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5 minutes. Spread a layer of sour cream on top. Garnish with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, jalapeño slices, and cilantro.
  7. Serve: Slice into squares and enjoy with your favorite toppings like guacamole, extra salsa, or hot sauce.

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