Easy Taco Casserole

Easy Taco Casserole is a flavorful, layered dish that brings all the delicious elements of a taco into a warm, cheesy, oven-baked meal. It’s hearty, simple to make, and perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a hungry crowd. With seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, tortillas or chips, and your favorite taco toppings, this casserole is a guaranteed family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This taco casserole delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It uses basic pantry ingredients and comes together quickly in one baking dish. It’s also incredibly customizable—perfect for picky eaters or using up leftovers. Whether you serve it as a quick weeknight dinner or a fun twist on taco night, this dish checks all the boxes for comfort and convenience.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Taco seasoning
• Water
• Onion (diced)
• Garlic (minced)
• Diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
• Corn (optional)
• Black beans (rinsed and drained)
• Tortilla chips or flour tortillas (cut into pieces)
• Shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
• Sour cream (for serving)
• Salsa or taco sauce (for serving)
• Optional toppings: green onions, avocado, olives, jalapeños, cilantro

directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in garlic, taco seasoning, and water. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
4. Add diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, and corn (if using). Cook for another 2–3 minutes until heated through.
5. Layer half of the crushed tortilla chips or tortilla pieces in the bottom of the baking dish.
6. Spoon half of the beef mixture over the chips, then sprinkle with half of the cheese.
7. Repeat the layers: chips, meat mixture, and cheese.
8. Bake for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Let cool for 5 minutes, then serve with sour cream, salsa, and your favorite toppings.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6–8 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Low-carb version: Skip the chips and layer over cauliflower rice or just beef and veggies.
• Spicy twist: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the meat mixture.
• Chicken option: Use shredded or ground chicken instead of beef.
• Vegetarian version: Skip the meat and add more beans, corn, and sautéed veggies like bell peppers or zucchini.
• Tortilla swap: Use corn tortillas for more texture or flour tortillas for a softer bite.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F until heated through. For best texture, reheat uncovered so the top stays crisp. This casserole can also be frozen (before or after baking) for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I make taco casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours ahead. Bake when ready to serve.

What kind of tortillas work best?

You can use either flour or corn tortillas—flour for a softer texture, corn for more crunch.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey or even ground chicken works great.

Do I have to use beans?

No, they’re optional. Feel free to leave them out or substitute with more veggies or corn.

Will this dish be spicy?

Not necessarily. Use mild diced tomatoes and taco seasoning to keep it family-friendly, or spice it up as desired.

Can I freeze taco casserole?

Yes, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze. Reheat in the oven from frozen or after thawing.

Can I add rice to this casserole?

Yes, cooked rice makes it even heartier. Add it to the meat mixture before layering.

How do I keep it from getting soggy?

For crispier layers, use thicker chips or bake uncovered. Serving immediately helps preserve texture.

Is this good for a potluck?

Yes, it travels well and reheats beautifully. Bring along your favorite toppings for a build-your-own taco bar.

What cheese is best for taco casserole?

A Mexican blend or cheddar melts beautifully and complements the taco flavors well.

Conclusion

Easy Taco Casserole is a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal packed with bold flavor and layered with love. It takes the best parts of taco night and turns them into a warm, comforting dish that’s easy to prep and even easier to devour. Customize it with your favorite ingredients and toppings, and watch it disappear from the dinner table in no time.

Print