Description

Take your taco night to the next level with this Best Taco Casserole! It’s a delicious, family-friendly dish that combines the bold flavors of traditional tacos into one hearty, cheesy, and comforting bake. With layers of seasoned ground beef, salsa, beans, crispy tortilla chips, and a melted cheese topping, this casserole is perfect for dinner, potlucks, or any time you want a flavorful one-dish meal. Customizable and easy to prepare, it’s guaranteed to be a hit at the table!

Ingredients

• For the Base:
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 2 cups salsa (mild, medium, or hot)
• 1 (16-ounce) can chili beans, drained
• 1 packet taco seasoning (optional)
• For the Layers:
• 3 cups tortilla chips, crushed
• 2 cups sour cream
• 1 (2-ounce) can sliced black olives, drained
• For the Toppings:
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
• Chopped green onions (optional)
• Diced tomatoes or avocado slices (optional)

Preparation Method

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned, about 5–7 minutes, then drain excess grease.
3. Stir in salsa, chili beans, and taco seasoning, cooking for 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat.
4. Spread half of the crushed tortilla chips in the baking dish, layer with beef mixture, then spread sour cream on top.
5. Sprinkle sliced black olives and remaining crushed tortilla chips over the sour cream.
6. Top with shredded cheese and bake for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Let cool for 5 minutes and garnish with green onions, diced tomatoes, or avocado slices.

Tips and Conclusion

For a spicier twist, use a hot salsa and add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture. Serve the casserole with extra toppings on the side, such as guacamole, pico de gallo, or hot sauce, so everyone can customize their plate. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, and reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick and satisfying meal.

This Best Taco Casserole is a surefire way to bring bold, comforting flavors to the table in a simple and convenient way. Perfect for feeding a crowd or making ahead for busy weeknights, it’s a dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Love tacos? Check out our other taco-inspired recipes for even more creative twists on a classic favorite!