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This Taco Casserole combines ground beef, cheddar cheese, salsa, taco seasoning, and Doritos for a tasty, satisfying meal. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it’s easy to make and packed with flavor!
Love casseroles? Try our Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, Chicken Tater Tot Casserole or check out our all casserole recipes.
Taco Casserole
Lately, we’ve been loving casseroles, especially the ones you can make in advance. It’s incredible how prepping meals early can simplify your life. You can even put together this Taco Casserole up to two days ahead of time, which is super convenient. Plus, it’s easy to switch up the ingredients to suit your taste!
Ingredient Notes
- Ground Beef: You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, consider using crumbled tofu or a meat substitute.
- Taco Seasoning: If you don’t have a packet, you can make your own by mixing chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and a bit of cayenne pepper.
- Black Beans: Kidney beans or pinto beans will work as a good substitute.
- Corn: Frozen corn can be used instead of canned; just make sure to thaw and drain it well.
- Salsa: Choose any type of salsa you prefer, whether it’s mild, medium, or hot. For a different flavor, try salsa verde.
- Cheese: While Cheddar is great for its melting properties, you can also use Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack for a bit of a kick, or a Mexican blend.
- Doritos: Any kind of tortilla chips will work if you don’t have Doritos. You might also use flavored chips like spicy or lime to add an extra zing.
- Toppings: These are all optional and customizable based on your preference. Feel free to add or remove toppings according to what you and your family enjoy.
How to Make Taco Casserole
Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high, cook ground beef for 5 minutes, breaking it apart.
Add onion and taco seasoning, cook 5 more minutes. Drain excess fat, then stir in beans, corn, salsa, and half the cheese until melted.
Layer crushed Doritos in the dish, top with beef mixture, then remaining cheese. Bake 15-20 minutes until bubbly.
Prepare toppings while baking. Rest casserole 5 minutes, then add toppings or serve separately for self-topping.
Make-Ahead Method for Taco Casserole
You can make this Taco Casserole up to 2 days in advance.
- Cook the ground beef and onions, then assemble all ingredients in the casserole dish. Allow to cool, cover, and refrigerate.
- Bake covered at 350°F for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 5 minutes to melt the cheese.
- If using frozen, defrost in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
- Once baked, top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, olives, and green onions just before serving.
Leftovers and Storage
- Store any leftovers in the fridge for 2-3 days in a covered container. Note that the Doritos may soften over time. You can freeze leftovers by portioning them into individual containers.
- Reheat in a microwave or in an oven at 350°F until thoroughly warmed.
What to Serve with Taco Casserole
Taco casserole pairs well with a variety of sides that complement its rich and zesty flavors. Here are some delicious options:
- A fresh, creamy Guacamole can add a cool and smooth contrast.
- A dollop of sour cream on top can help tame the heat and add a creamy texture.
- Serve a slice of buttery Cornbred for a sweet and savory side that soaks up the casserole’s juices.
- A simple green salad with a lime vinaigrette can add a light and crisp element to the meal.
- Grilled or boiled corn on the cob offers a sweet crunch that contrasts nicely with the savory casserole.
- Pico de Gallo adds a vibrant, fresh flavor and a bit of texture to each bite.
- Doritos or Tortilla Chips on the side for scooping up casserole or dipping in any extra salsa or guacamole.
If you make this recipe be sure to leave a comment or give this recipe a rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐! I will be happy to hear from you!
Taco Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef, 80% lean
- 1/2 medium onion chopped
- 1 1-ounce packet taco seasoning (or 2 Tablespoons)
- 1 14 ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 12 ounce can corn, drained
- 1 15.5 ounce jar salsa of your choice
- 2 cups 8 ounces shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 cups crushed Doritos
- Toppings, optional, for serving: lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, black olives, sliced scallions, cilantro, pickled jalapeños, sour cream, pico de gallo, or a combination.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, add oil and ground beef. Break the meat apart and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add the onion and taco seasoning to the skillet. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes.
- If there’s excess fat in the skillet, remove most of it with a spoon. Then, mix in the beans, corn, salsa, and HALF of the cheese until the cheese melts.
- Assemble: Spread the crushed Doritos evenly at the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
- Evenly spread the beef mixture over the Doritos.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Prepare the toppings while the casserole bakes.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. Then, add the desired toppings directly to the casserole, or serve in individual bowls and allow everyone to add their own toppings as they like.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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This was a huge hit at our family taco night! Layers of seasoned meat, cheese, and tortillas—so easy and so delicious. I topped it with guac and sour cream!
Sounds like a perfect taco night, Karen! Guac and sour cream are always a winning combo!