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Creating the perfect zoodles, or zucchini noodles, is a crucial step in making the Cheesy Taco Zoodle Casserole. The quality of your zoodles will significantly impact the texture and overall success of the dish. Here are some best practices for spiralizing and handling zucchini:

Cheesy Taco Zoodle Casserole

Discover the delicious and healthy Cheesy Taco Zoodle Casserole—a perfect twist on classic comfort food! Made with spiralized zucchini as a low-carb alternative to pasta, this dish is packed with flavor thanks to seasoned ground meat, black beans, sweet corn, and plenty of melted cheese. Ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining, it offers a satisfying balance of textures and tastes. Enjoy a nutritious meal that the whole family will love!
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Ingredients
  

2 medium zucchinis, spiralized into zoodles

1 lb ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey)

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon taco seasoning (adjust to taste)

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

1 cup corn (can be fresh, frozen, or canned)

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided (reserve ½ cup for topping)

1 cup salsa (your favorite kind)

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Optional: Sliced avocado for serving

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.

    Cook the Ground Meat: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, approximately 3-5 minutes. Next, add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Once cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet.

      Incorporate Additional Ingredients: To the skillet, add the taco seasoning, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes (along with their juices), and salsa. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preference. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors can meld together beautifully.

        Prepare the Zoodles: In a large 9x13-inch baking dish, evenly spread the spiralized zucchini across the bottom. It’s perfectly fine if the zoodles overlap slightly.

          Layer the Casserole: Carefully pour the meat mixture over the zucchini noodles, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Sprinkle 1.5 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, reserving the remaining ½ cup for later.

            Bake the Casserole: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and has turned a lovely golden color.

              Garnish and Serve: Once baked, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for added freshness. Consider serving with slices of avocado for a creamy contrast. Enjoy your delightful and cheesy taco zoodle casserole!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6