Cheesy Taco Casserole

Casseroles have long been a staple of comfort food, cherished for their warmth, heartiness, and the sense of home they evoke. These one-dish meals not only bring families together but also offer a convenient way to enjoy a balanced meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Among the many casserole variations, the Cheesy Taco Casserole stands out as a delightful fusion of classic Mexican flavors and the ease of preparation that defines this beloved dish.

Looking for a comforting and delicious meal? Try this Cheesy Taco Casserole, a perfect blend of Mexican flavors that brings families together! This easy-to-make dish layers flavorful ground meat, beans, corn, and gooey cheese for a satisfying one-dish wonder. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this versatile recipe adapts to any dietary need. Get ready to enjoy a hearty meal that feels like home!

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Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)

1 packet taco seasoning (or your homemade blend)

1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed

1 cup corn (use frozen or canned)

1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies

1 cup salsa (choose your preferred spiciness)

3 cups tortilla chips, slightly crushed for texture

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a Mexican cheese blend for varied flavor)

1 cup sour cream (for creaminess)

1 cup green onions, chopped (for freshness)

Optional toppings: sliced black olives, diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.

Cook the Meat: In a large skillet, heat over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until fully browned, approximately 5-7 minutes. Be sure to drain any excess fat to keep your casserole from being greasy.

Season the Meat: Stir in the taco seasoning, followed by the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and salsa. Mix thoroughly and allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes to incorporate the flavors. Once simmered, remove the skillet from the heat.

Layer the Casserole: In a generously sized casserole dish, begin layering your ingredients. Start with half of the crushed tortilla chips, then pour half of the meat mixture over them. Follow this with half of the shredded cheese. Repeat the layering process one more time, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.

Add the Sour Cream: Using a spoon, dollop the sour cream evenly across the top of the casserole. This adds a delicious creaminess and some beautiful contrast. Sprinkle the chopped green onions over it for extra flavor and color.

Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning, and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes. After this time, carefully remove the foil and continue to bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and has turned a glorious golden color.

Garnish and Serve: After baking, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This step is crucial to help set the layers. If desired, add your choice of toppings, such as sliced olives, avocado, jalapeños, or fresh cilantro for that extra pop. Serve hot with a smile and enjoy!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | Serves 6-8