Can I prepare taco casserole in advance and store it?

Yes, you can prepare taco casserole ahead of time. Cook the beef, onions, and spices, then assemble the layers in your baking dish. After it cools, cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to one month. When ready to bake from frozen, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 minutes until heated through.

What are the best ingredients to use in a taco casserole?

A classic taco casserole typically includes seasoned ground beef or turkey, diced onions, taco seasoning, canned beans, corn, salsa, and shredded cheese. You can also add layers of crushed tortilla chips or tortillas to add texture. Fresh toppings like chopped tomatoes, avocado, or cilantro can be added after baking for extra flavor.

How do I make taco casserole healthier without sacrificing flavor?

To make a healthier taco casserole, use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Swap full-fat cheese for reduced-fat versions, and include plenty of vegetables like bell peppers, corn, and black beans. Using whole wheat or corn tortillas adds fiber, and limiting added salt helps control sodium levels. Adding fresh lime juice and herbs after baking boosts flavor without extra calories.

Can I freeze leftovers of taco casserole and how long do they last?

Yes, taco casserole leftovers freeze well. Portion the casserole into airtight containers or wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap. Properly stored, it can last in the freezer for up to one month. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, usually for 20-30 minutes.

What side dishes go well with taco casserole?

Taco casserole pairs nicely with simple side dishes like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with guacamole, sour cream, and salsa for added variety. For a light option, a cucumber and tomato salad with lime dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the casserole’s rich flavors.

Taco Casserole Recipe With Simple Ingredients For Quick Meals

Name: Taco Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound (about 450 grams) lean ground beef; 1/2 medium onion, chopped; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 2 cups crushed tortilla chips (Nacho Cheese flavor recommended, but any flavor or type can be used); 1 can (14 ounces / approximately 400 grams) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (12 ounces / approximately 340 grams) corn, drained; 1 jar (15.5 ounces / approximately 440 grams) salsa (any preferred kind); 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend or cheddar cheese, divided; Optional toppings: fresh tomatoes, chopped cilantro, scallions, avocado, black olives, sour cream or plain Greek yogurt, iceberg or romaine lettuce

Description

🌮 This Easy Taco Casserole recipe is a quick and flavorful meal option perfect for busy weeknights.
🍅 It combines simple ingredients to deliver a satisfying dinner that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 pound (about 450 grams) lean ground beef

1/2 medium onion, chopped

1 tablespoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

2 cups crushed tortilla chips (Nacho Cheese flavor recommended, but any flavor or type can be used)

1 can (14 ounces / approximately 400 grams) black beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (12 ounces / approximately 340 grams) corn, drained

1 jar (15.5 ounces / approximately 440 grams) salsa (any preferred kind)

2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend or cheddar cheese, divided

Optional toppings: fresh tomatoes, chopped cilantro, scallions, avocado, black olives, sour cream or plain Greek yogurt, iceberg or romaine lettuce

Instructions

1-Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) with the rack in the middle position.

2-Heat olive oil: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook ground beef for 5 minutes, breaking it apart.

3-Add the chopped onion, chili powder, garlic powder, and ground cumin: Add the chopped onion, chili powder, garlic powder, and ground cumin to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

4-Spread the crushed tortilla chips: Spread the crushed tortilla chips evenly in the bottom of a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) casserole dish.

5-Spoon out any excess fat: Spoon out any excess fat from the skillet.

6-Stir black beans, corn, salsa, and half of the shredded cheese: Stir black beans, corn, salsa, and half of the shredded cheese into the beef mixture, warming it until the cheese melts.

7-Spread the beef mixture: Spread the beef mixture evenly over the crushed chips in the casserole dish.

8-Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top.

9-Bake uncovered: Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, until cheese is melted and casserole is hot.

10-Serve: Serve as is or with optional toppings like fresh tomatoes or avocado.

Notes

🌟 Use lean ground beef (90% lean) for a healthier version.
🌶 Substitute tortilla chips with preferred flavors or other types such as Fritos.
🥫 Beans can be swapped with refried, kidney, or pinto beans for variety.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 441
Sugar: 4 grams
Sodium: 860 milligrams
Fat: 20 grams
Saturated Fat: 7 grams
Unsaturated Fat: 12 grams
Trans Fat: 1 gram
Carbohydrates: 38 grams
Fiber: 7 grams
Protein: 27 grams
Cholesterol: 62 milligrams

Keywords: Taco, Casserole, Quick Meals, Simple Ingredients