Loaded Taco Beef Casserole

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A vibrant bowl of loaded taco beef casserole garnished with fresh toppings.

Why Make This Recipe

Loaded Taco Beef Casserole is a tasty and filling dish that brings together the flavors of tacos in a warm and comforting way. It’s perfect for busy nights or gatherings with friends and family. Everyone loves tacos, and this casserole makes it easy to serve a crowd. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, making it a great choice for any cook.

How to Make Loaded Taco Beef Casserole

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 2 cups cooked rice
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • Sliced jalapeños (optional)
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until brown. Drain any excess fat.
  3. Add the taco seasoning and salsa to the beef. Stir well to combine.
  4. In a large bowl, mix cooked rice, black beans, corn, and half of the cheese.
  5. Add the beef mixture to the rice mixture and stir until everything is well mixed.
  6. Pour this mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
  7. Top with the remaining cheese and sliced jalapeños if you’re using them.
  8. Bake in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
  10. Serve with sour cream and fresh cilantro on top if desired.

How to Serve Loaded Taco Beef Casserole

Serve the casserole hot straight from the oven. It’s great on its own but can also be accompanied by tortilla chips, guacamole, or more salsa. You can let everyone add their own toppings, like sour cream, lettuce, or additional cheese.

How to Store Loaded Taco Beef Casserole

If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to wrap it tightly or use a freezer-safe container.

Tips for Making Loaded Taco Beef Casserole

  • For extra flavor, add chopped onions and bell peppers when cooking the beef.
  • You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option.
  • Try adding some diced tomatoes for extra moisture and flavor.
  • Make it spicy by adding more jalapeños or using a spicier salsa.

Variations

You can customize this casserole in many ways. For a vegetarian option, skip the meat and use extra beans and veggies. You can also switch up the cheese or use quinoa instead of rice for a different twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it the day before, cover it, and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few more minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

2. Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork would work well in this recipe.

3. What can I use instead of rice?
You can substitute rice with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even pasta for a different texture.

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