Ultimate Easy Taco Casserole for Busy Weeknights

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Taco Casserole for Busy Nights

On busy days, everyone asks what’s for dinner.

Moreover, the last thing you want is a complicated Taco Casserole with a sink full of dishes afterward.

It has all the flavors everyone loves about taco night.

It includes seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, salsa, tortilla chips, and plenty of melted cheese baked together.

Additionally, you still get that delicious taco flavor without having to prepare and assemble a bunch of individual tacos.

One of the best things about this Taco Casserole recipe is how easy it is to customize. Additionally, you can use ground beef, turkey, chicken, or extra beans for a meatless option. Choose mild salsa for younger kids, or add jalapenos and hot sauce if your family enjoys a little extra heat.

Once the casserole comes out of the oven, let everyone add their favorite toppings. Sour cream, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, avocado, green onions, cilantro, and extra salsa are all delicious choices.

This taco casserole is ready in about 30 minutes.

Additionally, it uses simple ingredients you may already have in your kitchen.

It’s also great for leftovers, making it an easy lunch for the next day.

Whether you’re trying to get dinner ready between activities, consider this easy option. Additionally, it’s cozy without spending all evening in the kitchen. This easy taco casserole is one of those dependable recipes you’ll want to make again.

Additionally, Check out the complete recipe card below for the ingredients and step-by-step instructions! 🌮🧀

Easy Taco Casserole for Busy Weeknights

This easy taco casserole combines seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, salsa, crunchy tortilla chips, and melted cheese in one delicious dish. It’s a quick, family-friendly dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
• 1 small onion diced
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1/3 cup water
• 1 can black beans drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn drained
• 1 cup salsa
• 3 cups tortilla chips lightly crushed
• 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican-blend cheese divided
• Nonstick cooking spray

Optional Toppings

• Sour cream
• Shredded lettuce
• Diced tomatoes
• Sliced avocado or guacamole
• Green onions
• Fresh cilantro
• Sliced jalapeños
• Extra salsa or taco sauce

Method

 

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly coat a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Add the ground beef or turkey and diced onion to a large skillet. Cook over medium heat until the meat is fully browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess grease.
3. Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.
4. Add the black beans, corn, salsa, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
5. Spread half of the crushed tortilla chips across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
6. Spoon the taco mixture evenly over the tortilla chips. Top with the remaining chips and the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese.
7. Bake uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes. Add your favorite toppings and serve warm.

Notes

For a milder, kid-friendly casserole, use mild taco seasoning and salsa. You can substitute the ground beef with turkey, chicken, or extra beans.

If preparing the casserole ahead of time, wait to add the tortilla chips until immediately before baking so they don’t become soggy.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Add fresh crushed tortilla chips after reheating for extra crunch.