You know those nights when you need to whip up something quick, but still want it to be a hit with everyone around the dinner table? This taco casserole is your go-to. It’s like a fiesta in a dish—layered with flavors that remind me of those spontaneous road trips to Mexico, where every bite felt like a new adventure.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned and crumbled, which should take about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Add salsa to the skillet, reduce the heat, and let it simmer until the liquid is absorbed, approximately 20 minutes. Then, mix in the beans and cook until they are heated through.
- Place the crushed tortilla chips evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spoon the beef and bean mixture over the chips.
- Spread sour cream over the beef mixture, then top with olives, green onions, and tomatoes. Finish by sprinkling Cheddar cheese over the entire dish.
- Bake the casserole in the oven for about 30 minutes, or until it is hot and bubbly.
- Serve the casserole while hot and enjoy!
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 jar of salsa
- 1 can of chili beans
- Crushed tortilla chips
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can of black olives
- Green onions
- 1 fresh tomato
- Shredded Cheddar cheese
FAQ
- Can I substitute the ground beef with another type of meat?
- Yes, you can use ground turkey or even shredded chicken as alternatives to ground beef for a lighter or different flavor profile.
- Is it possible to freeze the Mexican casserole for later use?
- Absolutely! To freeze, bake the casserole in a foil pan, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to three months.
- What are some additional ingredients I can add for extra flavor?
- Many people like to include a packet of taco seasoning or a can of chopped green chiles in the meat and bean mixture for added spice and flavor.
- How should I store leftovers, and how long will they last?
- Leftovers should be kept in an airtight container or tightly covered in the baking dish. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to eat.
- What are some suitable side dishes or drinks to serve with this casserole?
- Consider pairing the casserole with Mexican side dishes like Cilantro Lime Rice or Elote. For drinks, a Classic Margarita complements the meal perfectly.
Tips
- Enhance the flavor of the ground beef by adding a packet of taco seasoning while it’s cooking.
- For a lighter version, consider substituting the ground beef with ground turkey or even shredded chicken.
- If you’re planning to freeze the casserole, use a foil pan and ensure it’s tightly wrapped in both storage wrap and aluminum foil to maintain freshness.
- Feel free to modify the recipe by adding ingredients like chopped green chiles or swapping chili beans with corn for a different twist.
Equipment
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish – This is essential for baking the casserole and may not be in every kitchen.
- Large Skillet – Necessary for browning the ground beef; some might prefer to purchase a new or larger one.
- Cooking Spray – While this is a consumable, it’s not something everyone always has on hand.
- Airtight Containers – Useful for storing leftovers, especially if someone is looking for a long-term storage solution.
- Foil Pans – If you plan on freezing the casserole, foil pans are helpful for easy storage and reheating.
