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- 1 pound ground beef - 1 small onion, finely diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix - 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained - 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained - 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies - 1 cup cooked rice (your choice of white or brown) - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese - 1 cup crushed tortilla chips (for added crunch) - 1 cup sour cream (for creaminess) - 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional, for heat) - Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) - Large skillet - 9x13 inch baking dish - Spatula and spoon Using these ingredients, you can create a flavorful and hearty Loaded Taco Beef Casserole. The ground beef serves as a tasty base, while the beans and corn add fiber and texture. The mix of spices in the taco seasoning gives it that classic taco flavor we all love. You can also customize this dish to fit your taste. Add jalapeños for a spicy kick or sprinkle cilantro on top for some fresh flavor. Don't forget the tools! A large skillet helps with cooking the beef, while a 9x13 inch baking dish is perfect for layering all the goodness. {{ingredient_image_2}} 1. Start by cooking the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. 2. Brown the beef well, breaking it into small pieces. This step takes about 8 minutes. 3. After the beef is cooked, drain any extra fat from the skillet. 4. Next, add the finely diced onion and minced garlic to the beef. 5. Sauté these for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onion is soft and clear. Stir often to avoid burning. 1. Now, mix in the taco seasoning. This adds great flavor to the beef. 2. Next, add the rinsed black beans, drained corn, and canned diced tomatoes with green chilies. 3. Stir everything together and let it cook for an extra 5 minutes. This helps all the flavors blend well. 4. Remove the skillet from heat and gently mix in the cooked rice. Make sure it’s evenly spread through the mixture. 1. Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking. 2. Spread half of the beef mixture over the bottom of the dish. 3. Top it with 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. This will melt beautifully. 4. Add the rest of the beef mixture on top of the cheese layer. 5. Next, spoon the sour cream across the surface. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly. 6. Finish with the remaining cheese and sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top for crunch. 7. If you want some heat, add sliced jalapeños over the top. 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking. 2. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. 3. Look for the cheese to be melted and bubbly, with a nice golden color. 4. Once it’s done, take the casserole out and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. 5. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro for a bright touch. To make your Loaded Taco Beef Casserole burst with flavor, consider adding spices. Try cumin, chili powder, or even smoked paprika. These spices give the dish warmth and depth. Fresh ingredients also boost taste. Use fresh garlic instead of minced. Fresh cilantro adds a bright touch as a garnish. For cheese that melts perfectly, use sharp cheddar. It gives great flavor and melts well. Layer it between the beef mixture to trap heat. For crunchiness, add crushed tortilla chips on top. Bake until they are golden. This adds a great texture contrast to the soft casserole. Serve the casserole with a fresh salad for balance. A simple green salad with lime dressing works well. You can also add salsa and extra sour cream on the side. These sides add freshness and creaminess. Enjoy your meal with family and friends! Pro Tips Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for 90% lean ground beef to reduce excess grease while still maintaining flavor. Customize Your Heat: Adjust the amount of taco seasoning and jalapeños based on your heat preference; taste as you go! Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Just bake it when you're ready to serve! Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for unique flavors and textures. {{image_4}} If you want a meat-free option, try using plant-based meat. You can use lentils, beans, or soy crumbles. These options give you the same texture and flavor you love. Just cook them like you would ground beef. You can add some extra spices to boost the flavor. This way, everyone can enjoy the casserole. For a low-carb twist, swap the rice for cauliflower rice. It keeps the dish light and still tasty. You can also use zucchini or bell peppers instead of rice. This change cuts down on carbs while keeping the meal hearty. You won’t miss the rice at all! Feel free to get creative with toppings! Try adding sliced olives, diced avocado, or fresh pico de gallo. You can also sprinkle some green onions on top for a crunchy bite. If you like it spicy, add more jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce. These toppings make the casserole even more fun and tasty! To keep your Loaded Taco Beef Casserole fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container. Make sure the casserole cools down first. It can last in the fridge for about three to four days. If you want to enjoy it later, try not to let it sit out too long. For freezing, cut the casserole into portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents freezer burn. You can freeze the casserole for up to three months. When you are ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C). Heat it for about 20-30 minutes. Cover it with foil to avoid sogginess. If you want it crispier, uncover it for the last few minutes. Enjoy it hot and fresh! You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef. These options are leaner and still tasty. If you prefer plant-based proteins, try black beans or lentils. Both give great texture and flavor. You can also use crumbled tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian twist. Each choice offers a unique taste while keeping the spirit of the casserole alive. Yes, you can make it ahead! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step. Cover it well and store it in the fridge for one to two days. This makes it easy for busy days. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. If you want to freeze it, wrap the dish tightly with foil. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking. To add heat, mix in sliced jalapeños with the meat. You can also use spicy taco seasoning instead of mild. Adding some red pepper flakes will kick up the spice too. If you love hot sauce, drizzle it on top just before serving. These options let you control the heat level and make it as spicy as you like! This casserole combines ground beef, veggies, and cheese for a tasty meal. You learned how to enhance flavors with spices and adjust for dietary needs. Remember to store leftovers properly and reheat with care. Try new toppings or swap ingredients for fun twists. With these tips, you'll make a dish everyone loves. Enjoy your cooking journey and share your delicious results!

Zesty Loaded Taco Beef Casserole

A delicious and hearty casserole packed with flavors of taco seasoning, beef, beans, and cheese, perfect for a family meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 6
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 cup cooked rice (your choice of white or brown)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)
  • to taste fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.
  • In a large skillet set over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon. Once cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
  • Add the finely diced onion and minced garlic to the beef in the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
  • Incorporate the taco seasoning into the skillet, followed by the rinsed black beans, drained corn, and the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes until all ingredients are well united and heated through.
  • Remove the skillet from the heat and carefully mix in the cooked rice, ensuring an even distribution throughout the mixture.
  • Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread half of the beef mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish. Top this with 1 cup of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
  • Spoon the remaining beef mixture on top of the cheese layer, and then dollop the sour cream across the surface, spreading it lightly with a spatula for even coverage.
  • Finish by layering the remaining cheese on top, followed by an even sprinkle of the crushed tortilla chips to add a delightful crunch.
  • If you're seeking a touch of spice, scatter sliced jalapeños over the top of the casserole.
  • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and turning a lovely golden color.
  • Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, garnish the dish with freshly chopped cilantro for a bright flavor and appealing presentation.

Notes

Serve alongside a fresh green salad or additional sour cream and salsa for a complete Mexican-inspired meal!
Keyword beef, casserole, cheese, taco