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When it comes to weeknight dinners or family gatherings, few dishes can rival the comforting appeal of a cheesy taco casserole. This dish combines the beloved flavors of tacos into a hearty casserole that’s not only easy to prepare but also satisfying for everyone at the table. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply looking for a quick meal after a busy day, this recipe offers a delightful blend of textures and tastes that can be tailored to suit various preferences.

Cheesy Taco Casserole

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this cheesy taco casserole recipe! Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this hearty dish combines seasoned meat, black beans, and crunchy tortilla chips, all topped with gooey cheddar cheese. Easy to customize for different tastes and dietary needs, it's a crowd-pleaser for all ages. From prep to bake, enjoy a satisfying meal that’s delicious and effortless. Spice it up with fresh toppings like sour cream and salsa for an unforgettable experience!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb ground beef or turkey

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 packet taco seasoning (approximately 1 oz)

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (15 oz) corn, drained

1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies

2 cups tortilla chips, crushed

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup sour cream

1 cup salsa

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Optional: sliced jalapeños for added spice

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.

    Cook the Meat: In a large skillet, over medium heat, add the ground beef (or turkey). Cook until the meat is browned, using a spatula to break it into smaller pieces as it cooks. If there's excess fat, drain it to keep the dish from becoming greasy.

      Sauté Aromatics: To the skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté the mixture until the onion turns translucent and fragrant, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

        Season the Beef: Incorporate the taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies into the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined, then allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld.

          Layer the Casserole: Take a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and spread half of the crushed tortilla chips evenly at the bottom. Next, spoon half of the meat mixture over the chips. Follow this by sprinkling one cup of shredded cheese on top. Repeat this layering process with the remaining tortilla chips, the rest of the meat mixture, and finish with the remaining shredded cheese.

            Add Sour Cream and Salsa: In a separate small bowl, combine the sour cream and salsa, mixing them well. Spread this mixture evenly over the top layer of cheese in the casserole.

              Bake: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes, then carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is thoroughly melted and bubbly.

                Garnish and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. Garnish generously with freshly chopped cilantro, and if you like some heat, add sliced jalapeños on top.

                  Slice and Enjoy: Cut the casserole into squares and serve warm. Enjoy the deliciously cheesy and flavorful taco casserole with family and friends!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 50 min | 6-8 servings