The Cheesy Taco Casserole is a robust and comforting dish that brings together the beloved flavors of traditional tacos in a hearty, oven-baked form. This casserole starts with a base layer of tortilla chips or soft tortillas, which are either left whole or roughly broken into pieces. These provide a satisfying crunch or a tender texture that holds up well under the layers of fillings.
The next layer is a rich mixture of ground meat—commonly beef, though chicken, turkey, or even a vegetarian alternative like lentils or quinoa can be used. This meat is thoroughly browned in a skillet and seasoned generously with a blend of taco spices such as chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Some recipes also incorporate a bit of tomato sauce or salsa into the meat mixture to add moisture and deepen the flavor profile.
On top of the meat layer, you’ll often find a variety of beans—black beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans—adding a hearty and nutritious element. Corn is another popular addition, providing sweetness and texture contrast. Chopped onions, bell peppers, and jalapeños may be sautéed and added into the mix for extra flavor and a bit of crunch.
The defining feature of the casserole, however, is its generous use of cheese. A mix of shredded cheeses, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend, is sprinkled liberally between each layer and on top of the casserole, ensuring every bite is gooey and satisfying. As the casserole bakes, the cheese melts and mingles with the other ingredients, creating a deliciously cohesive dish.
Before baking, some versions of the casserole are topped with additional layers of tortillas or chips, while others may simply finish with a layer of cheese. The casserole is then baked until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the edges are crisped to perfection.
Once removed from the oven, the Cheesy Taco Casserole is often garnished with fresh toppings before serving. These can include diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, sour cream, and avocado or guacamole. These fresh elements add a burst of flavor and a contrasting coolness that complements the warm, spicy layers beneath.
This dish is celebrated for its versatility, allowing cooks to adjust ingredients based on preferences or dietary restrictions. It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where comforting, flavorful food is desired. The Cheesy Taco Casserole embodies the essence of taco night with a twist, offering a delicious and easy-to-serve alternative to the traditional handheld taco.
Ingredients:
2 pounds ground beef
1 packet (1 oz.) taco seasoning
4 eggs
3/4 cup whole milk
1 3/4 cups biscuit mix or bisquick
1/2 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded or chopped lettuce
1 cup finely chopped tomatoes
2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
Black olives (sliced, optional)
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper (to taste)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 400º F (200º C) and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and milk until they are combined. Stir in the biscuit mix, salt, and pepper (if using), and set this aside.
Season the beef with salt and pepper, and then cook it until it is browned. Drain the fat and mix in the taco seasoning.
Spread the beef evenly in the greased baking dish, then pour the biscuit mix on top, spreading it evenly over the beef.
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake it until the biscuit layer turns golden brown. This should take about 22-25 minutes.
Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool. Afterward, spread the sour cream over the biscuit layer.
Sprinkle the chopped lettuce, tomatoes, and optional olives over the sour cream, then add a generous layer of cheddar cheese on top.
Serve the casserole hot and savor every bite!
This recipe gives you the ultimate taco experience without any of the hassle. Plus, the sturdy biscuit base means that every serving is a perfect balance of all the ingredients. Now, who’s ready for taco night? Enjoy!
