Loaded Taco Beef Casserole: A Flavorful, Easy Family Favorite

This mouthwatering Loaded Taco Beef Casserole brings the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine together with the comforting heartiness of a classic casserole. It’s the ultimate one-dish meal, featuring taco-seasoned beef, beans, corn, crispy tortilla chips, and melted cheddar cheese—sure to please the entire family!

Why You’ll Love This Casserole

At the heart of this dish is lean ground beef, seasoned with a packet of taco seasoning for that unmistakable Southwestern flavor. Salsa and tomato paste give it a tangy kick, while black beans and sweet corn add texture and vibrance. The layers of crispy tortilla chips and gooey cheddar cheese make this casserole irresistible, providing a satisfying contrast of crunchy and melty goodness.

Tips for Easy Preparation:

Taco seasoning packet: Save time with a store-bought packet that adds authentic flavor in seconds.
Quick-cooking lean ground beef: The hearty base of beef cooks fast and creates a rich foundation for the casserole.
Canned black beans & frozen corn: No chopping needed! These pantry and freezer staples simplify the process.
Crushed tortilla chips: Skip the frying and use store-bought chips to create a crispy topping.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Provides that familiar, comforting cheesiness.
Pre-sliced olives & chopped cilantro: Quick and easy garnishes to finish off the dish.

Loaded Taco Beef Casserole Recipe

Ingredients:

1 pound lean ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning mix (1 ounce)
1 cup salsa
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup frozen corn kernels
2 cups crushed tortilla chips (divided)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
1/2 cup sliced black olives
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:
Set the oven to 350°F.
Cook the Beef:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef for 5-7 minutes, crumbling it as it browns. Drain any excess fat.
Season the Beef:
Stir in the taco seasoning and salsa. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens.
Combine with Beans and Corn:
In a bowl, mix together the cooked beef, black beans, and corn.
Assemble the Casserole:
Spread 1 cup of crushed tortilla chips in the bottom of a greased 9×13 baking dish. Top with the beef mixture, then sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Add the Crunch:
Add the remaining 1 cup of crushed tortilla chips, pressing them lightly into the cheese. Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve:
Remove the casserole from the oven and top with sliced black olives, green onions, and cilantro (if using). Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Loaded Taco Beef Casserole pairs perfectly with rice, beans, or a crisp salad for a complete meal. It’s also a fantastic dish to bring to a potluck, thanks to its simple yet crowd-pleasing nature. The combination of Mexican flavors and cheesy casserole comfort makes it an instant hit at the dinner table.

Make Taco Tuesday Extra Special

With its quick prep and tasty layers, this casserole takes Taco Tuesday to the next level or adds a fun twist to your weeknight dinners. Enjoy the cheesy, spicy, and savory goodness—¡Olé!