Best Taco Casserole

This hearty taco casserole transforms traditional taco night into a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that comes together in one baking dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, this Mexican-inspired meal combines all the flavors you love about tacos in casserole form that the whole family will devour.

I first created this taco casserole when hosting an impromptu game night and needed something easy that would feed a crowd. It was such a hit that it's now requested at nearly every family gathering and has become my go-to dish when bringing meals to new parents or neighbors.

Ingredients

• Lean ground beef: Provides the hearty protein base while keeping the dish from becoming too greasy. Look for 90/10 or 85/15 for best results.
• Salsa: Adds instant flavor complexity. Choose your preferred spice level, but a chunky medium variety offers the best balance.
• Chili beans: Bring texture and subtle spice. Drain them well to prevent the casserole from becoming soggy.
• Taco seasoning: Enhances the Mexican flavor profile. The packet is optional as the salsa provides good flavor, but it adds that classic taco taste.
• Tortilla chips: Create the signature crunch. Use thicker restaurant-style chips as they hold up better in the casserole.
• Sour cream: Creates a creamy, tangy layer that balances the spice. Full-fat works best for richness.
• Black olives: Add a salty, briny element that complements the other flavors perfectly.
• Shredded cheese: Melts into a golden crust. A Mexican blend offers the best flavor, but cheddar works beautifully too.
• Optional fresh toppings: Brighten the finished dish and add color. Choose what your family enjoys.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 350°F. This moderate temperature allows the casserole to heat through evenly without burning the chips or cheese. Lightly grease your 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Cook the Ground Beef:

Place a large skillet over medium heat and allow it to get hot before adding the ground beef. Break the meat into small pieces as it cooks, using a wooden spoon or spatula to create even crumbles. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until no pink remains and the meat is fully browned. Once cooked, drain any excess grease.

Create the Flavor Base:

Return the drained beef to the skillet and add the salsa, drained chili beans, and taco seasoning if using. Stir thoroughly and let simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Assemble the Casserole:

Spread half of your crushed tortilla chips across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spoon the seasoned beef mixture over the chips, spreading it evenly. Carefully spread the sour cream over the beef. Distribute the black olives, then sprinkle the remaining crushed tortilla chips over everything.

Add the Cheese:

Cover the entire casserole with an even layer of shredded cheese, spreading it to the edges for a cheesy crust.

Bake to Perfection:

Place the assembled casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese has melted completely and turned a golden color.

Pin it

The black olives in this recipe are my secret ingredient for adding depth. While many people think of them as just a garnish, they contribute a subtle Mediterranean note that elevates the entire dish. My husband actually disliked olives until trying them in this casserole, and now he requests extra on his portion!

Make-Ahead Options

This taco casserole is the perfect make-ahead meal. Prepare all components up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Assemble just before baking, adding 5 extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold. For longer storage, freeze the beef mixture for up to 3 months. Thaw before assembling and baking.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe welcomes creative substitutions. Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or replace beef with a mixture of black beans and corn. For a lower-carb version, use roasted cauliflower florets instead of tortilla chips. Accommodate dietary restrictions by using dairy-free cheese and sour cream.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside a green salad with cilantro-lime dressing for a complete meal. Create a topping bar with diced avocado, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, diced tomatoes, and additional sour cream for personal customization. Pairs wonderfully with Mexican rice or refried beans for a restaurant-style experience at home.

Pin it

This taco casserole is truly a family favorite, combining convenience with incredible flavor. It's guaranteed to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this taco casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, layer the casserole with the pre-cooked beef mixture, fresh tortilla chips, sour cream, and cheese, then bake as directed. For best results, don't assemble more than 4 hours in advance to prevent the chips from becoming soggy.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives work well as substitutes. You could also use shredded chicken or even black beans and corn for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly for your protein choice.

→ How spicy is this dish?

The spice level is customizable based on your preferences. Use mild, medium, or hot salsa according to your taste, and adjust the amount of taco seasoning. You can also add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat if desired.

→ What sides pair well with taco casserole?

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, corn on the cob, Mexican rice, or refried beans. For a lighter option, serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh avocado and tomato salad.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. For best results when reheating a larger portion, cover with foil and warm in a 325°F oven for 15-20 minutes.

→ Can I freeze this casserole?

You can freeze the beef mixture, but the complete assembled casserole doesn't freeze well due to the tortilla chips and dairy components. For meal prep, freeze just the cooked beef mixture, then thaw and complete assembly with fresh ingredients before baking.