Description
This Taco Casserole features layers of seasoned ground beef (or turkey), black beans, corn, and cheese over a crunchy Fritos base. Topped with sour cream and fresh garnishes, it’s a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 ounce)
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 cups Fritos corn chips
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef (or turkey) and diced onion. Cook until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break up the meat with a spatula as it cooks.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the meat mixture, stirring to combine. Follow the instructions on the seasoning packet for adding water, usually about 1/2 cup. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and salsa. Mix everything well and let it cook for another 3-4 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large baking dish (about 9×13 inches), spread half of the Fritos corn chips evenly across the bottom. This will create a crunchy base for your casserole.
- Next, spoon half of the meat mixture over the Fritos, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the meat mixture, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
- Repeat the layers: add the remaining Fritos on top of the cheese, followed by the rest of the meat mixture, and finish with the remaining cheese on top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from burning. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to cut into portions.
- Using a spatula, carefully cut the casserole into squares and serve on individual plates.
- Top each serving with a dollop of sour cream, and if you like, sprinkle some chopped fresh cilantro and sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
- Feel free to serve with additional salsa or guacamole on the side for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or use more beans and vegetables.
- For a spicier version, consider adding diced green chilies or using a spicy salsa.
- Mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
- For a creamier texture, mix some sour cream directly into the meat mixture before layering.
- For a cheesy twist, add a layer of cream cheese mixed with taco seasoning between the layers of meat and cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes