Best Taco Casserole Recipe – Mexican Special

Taco Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—layered with all the bold, zesty flavors of your favorite tacos but baked into one hearty, family-friendly dish. It’s packed with seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, beans, and tortilla chips or soft tortillas. Easy to customize and perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or game day, this taco casserole is sure to become a go-to favorite!
- Prep Time15 min
- Cook Time30 min
- Total Time45 min
- Cuisine
- Course
Best Taco Casserole Ingredients:
- 500g (1 lb) ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 can (400g/15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or canned, drained)
- 1 can (400g/15 oz) diced tomatoes (or Rotel)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 2 cups tortilla chips (crushed) or 6 small flour tortillas (cut into strips)
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 2–3 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sour cream, salsa, and avocado (for serving)
Cook the Beef:
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute.
Season & Mix:
Stir in taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 2–3 minutes. Add beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Mix until combined.
Assemble the Casserole:
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the tortilla chips or strips. Top with half of the meat mixture and sprinkle with half the cheese. Repeat layers.
Bake:
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve:
Let cool slightly. Garnish with olives, green onions, and your favorite toppings like sour cream, salsa, or avocado.
Recipe Notes :
Tortilla Tip: Chips give a crunchier base, while tortillas make it soft and layered—both delicious!
Make It Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate unbaked for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.
Customize It: Add jalapeños, bell peppers, or swap beef for ground turkey or plant-based meat.
Freezer Friendly: Freeze after baking and cool completely. Reheat covered in the oven at 180°C (350°F).
Cheese Options: Use Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even a cheddar-mozzarella blend.