Beef Tacos / Taco Casserole

This recipe provides two delicious options: classic Beef Tacos or a hearty Taco Casserole. Both versions highlight seasoned beef, melted cheese, and fresh toppings for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Whether you prefer handheld tacos or a comforting casserole, this recipe delivers bold flavors, easy preparation, and versatile serving options. It is ideal for busy nights, gatherings, or meal prep.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Taco seasoning
• Tortillas (for tacos)
• Tortilla chips or tortillas (for casserole)
• Shredded cheese
• Onion
• Garlic
• Salsa
• Lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream (toppings)

directions

1. Brown the beef with onion and garlic.
2. Add taco seasoning and a splash of water, then simmer.
3. For tacos: fill warmed tortillas with beef and toppings.
4. For casserole: layer chips, beef mixture, cheese, and salsa in a baking dish.
5. Bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes until bubbly.
6. Serve with fresh toppings.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4–6
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Substitute ground turkey.
• Add corn or black beans.
• Use spicy seasoning for added heat.
• Replace chips with flour tortillas for a softer casserole.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers for up to 3 days. Reheat tacos in a skillet and the casserole in the oven at 350°F to maintain texture.

FAQs

Can I make the beef mixture ahead?

Yes, it stores well and reheats easily.

What tortillas work best?

Corn tortillas for traditional tacos; flour tortillas for softer texture.

Can I make this casserole mild?

Use mild salsa and seasoning.

How do I prevent soggy casserole?

Add chips just before baking.

Can I freeze taco casserole?

Yes, freeze before baking for best results.

Can I add vegetables?

Bell peppers, corn, and beans work well.

How do I keep taco shells crispy?

Warm them briefly in the oven before serving.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free tortillas and seasoning.

Can I use store-bought seasoning?

Yes, though homemade reduces sodium.

What toppings pair best?

Lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, and jalapeños.

Conclusion

Whether served as tacos or baked into a casserole, this beef-based recipe is flavorful, flexible, and satisfying. It is an excellent family-friendly option for weeknight meals.

Beef Tacos / Taco Casserole

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A flavorful fusion of classic beef tacos and a cheesy taco casserole, combining seasoned ground beef, tortillas, and melted cheese in a layered, oven-baked dish.

• Author: Emma Harper
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 30 mins
• Total Time: 40 mins
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: Mexican
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 cup canned black beans, drained
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 1 cup salsa
• 8 small flour or corn tortillas, cut into wedges
• 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup sliced green onions
• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet, add ground beef, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Add taco seasoning and water; simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened.
4. Stir in black beans, corn, and salsa, then season with salt and pepper.
5. Lightly grease a baking dish and layer half the tortilla wedges on the bottom.
6. Spoon half the beef mixture over tortillas and top with half the cheese.
7. Repeat layers with remaining tortillas, beef mixture, and cheese.
8. Bake for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish with diced tomatoes and green onions. Serve with sour cream if desired.

Notes

• Use crunchy taco shells instead of tortillas for extra texture.
• Add jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicier casserole.
• Can be prepped ahead and baked later.
• Great for leftovers and meal prep.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 85mg