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Taco Bake: A Delicious, Family-Friendly Recipe

A hearty, cheesy casserole that combines all your favorite taco flavors in one easy-to-make dish. Layers of seasoned ground beef, tortilla chips, beans, and melted cheese create the ultimate comfort food with a Mexican twist.

  • Author: ranime
  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 25 mins
  • Total Time: 40 mins
  • Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
  • 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
  • ½ cup water
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles (Rotel)
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 4 cups tortilla chips, lightly crushed
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ½ cup salsa
  • Optional toppings: diced avocado, sliced olives, chopped cilantro, jalapeños

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
  3. Add taco seasoning and water to the beef. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Stir in black beans, diced tomatoes with green chiles, and corn. Cook for 3-4 minutes until heated through.
  5. Spread half of the crushed tortilla chips in the prepared baking dish.
  6. Top with half of the meat mixture, then 1 cup of shredded cheese.
  7. Repeat layers with remaining chips, meat mixture, and cheese.
  8. Dollop sour cream and salsa over the top, then gently swirl with a knife.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  10. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving with optional toppings.

Notes

  • For a spicier version, use hot taco seasoning and add ½ tsp cayenne pepper
  • Vegetarian option: Substitute meat with 2 cups cooked lentils or meatless crumbles
  • Make ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking
  • Leftovers reheat well in microwave or oven
  • For extra crunch, add another layer of chips on top before baking

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