Taco Casserole
Taco Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the flavors of traditional tacos into a simple bake, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Ingredients
For the beef mixture
- 1 pound lean ground beef Use lean beef for a lighter option.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup diced red onion
- ½ cup diced bell pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¾ teaspoon cumin
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon coriander
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup water
- ½ cup corn kernels
- ½ cup rinsed and drained black beans
For the topping
- 1 cup lightly crushed chips
- ⅓ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ⅓ cup shredded Monterey jack cheese
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a 2-quart baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set it aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick pan over medium heat. Add the diced red onion and diced bell pepper and cook for 3 minutes.
- Increase the heat to medium-high, then add the lean ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking the meat up as it cooks, about 4 to 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle in the spices: smoked paprika, cumin, kosher salt, black pepper, coriander, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder. Stir and cook for 1 minute.
- Slowly add the water, cooking until the beef sauce slightly thickens. Then add the corn kernels and rinsed and drained black beans. Stir until everything is well combined.
Assembly and Baking
- Transfer the beef mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
- Top the beef with the lightly crushed chips, then sprinkle with shredded sharp cheddar cheese and Monterey jack cheese.
- Bake until the cheese has melted, about 5 minutes.
- Top the taco casserole with your desired toppings and serve immediately.
Notes
Serve with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor. This dish pairs well with a side of salad or rice.