Easy Taco Casserole – Classic Comfort Food!

ground beef

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: ground pork

Ground turkey is lower in fat, while ground pork is often less expensive.

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: reduced-fat cheese

💰Cheaper: processed cheese

Reduced-fat cheese offers fewer calories, while processed cheese can be more budget-friendly.

Preheat the oven to 375°F.

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 pounds of ground beef and brown it.

Once the beef is browning, coarsely chop it with a meat chopper.

Let the beef cook until browned, then drain off excess grease or water.

Add 2 packets of taco seasoning and 1/2 cup of water to the beef, stirring to combine.

Add 1 can of Rotel and 1 can of black beans (drained and rinsed) to the beef mixture.

Stir in 1.5 cups of chunky salsa and let it heat through for 2-3 minutes.

In a 9x13 pan, spray with olive oil spray.

Crush tortilla chips by hand until they are coarsely crushed, measuring out 4 cups total.

Layer half of the crushed tortilla chips in the bottom of the casserole dish.

Spread half of the meat mixture over the chips.

Sprinkle 1 cup of Mexican shredded cheese over the meat layer.

Add another layer of crushed tortilla chips on top.

Spoon the remaining meat mixture over the second layer of chips.

Top with another cup of cheese.

Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until bubbly.

Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Serve with toppings like sour cream, lettuce, jalapeños, green onions, and diced tomatoes.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens