Description
Comfort meets Mexican-inspired delight in this irresistible Taco Casserole that layers zesty flavors and hearty ingredients. Cheesy, spicy, and perfect for family dinners, you’ll savor each mouthwatering bite of this crowd-pleasing dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 pound (454 grams) lean ground beef
Vegetables and Seasonings:
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
Base and Additional Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups crushed Doritos (Nacho Cheese flavor)
- 1 (14 ounce/397 grams) can black beans, drained & rinsed
- 1 (12 ounce/340 grams) can corn, drained
- 1 (15.5 ounce/440 grams) jar salsa
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (or cheddar)
Toppings (optional):
- tomatoes
- cilantro
- scallions
- avocado
- black olives
- sour cream
- lettuce
Instructions
- Prepare the oven by heating it to 350F (175C), ensuring a warm cooking environment.
- In a large skillet, warm olive oil over medium heat, then introduce ground beef and diced onions, sautéing until the meat browns and onions become translucent.
- Enhance the meat mixture by sprinkling chili powder, garlic powder, and ground cumin, stirring to distribute the aromatic spices evenly.
- Incorporate black beans, corn, and salsa into the skillet, gently mixing and allowing the ingredients to meld together for 2-3 minutes.
- Create a crispy base in a 9×13-inch baking dish by layering half of the crushed Doritos, forming a crunchy foundation.
- Spread the seasoned beef mixture atop the Doritos, creating an even layer of savory goodness.
- Generously sprinkle the first portion of shredded cheese over the beef, then add the remaining Doritos and cheese for extra texture and flavor.
- Transfer the casserole to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, watching for the cheese to melt and become golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with preferred toppings before serving the delectable taco casserole.
Notes
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a leaner, vegetarian-friendly version that maintains the same delicious flavor profile.
- Reduce sodium by choosing low-sodium salsa and using reduced-fat cheese, making this dish more heart-healthy without compromising taste.
- Boost nutritional value by adding diced bell peppers or spinach to the beef mixture, increasing vegetable content and creating extra layers of texture.
- Customize toppings with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative to sour cream for added freshness and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 435 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 670 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg