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Easy Budget-Friendly Taco Casserole Recipe with Cheesy Perfect Flavor

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A quick, comforting, and budget-friendly taco casserole layered with seasoned ground beef, crunchy tortilla chips, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights and family meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup frozen corn (fresh can be used)
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 3 cups crushed tortilla chips (about 90 g)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (about 200 g)
  • 1 cup tomato sauce (240 ml)
  • 2 tbsp taco seasoning (chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Optional toppings: sour cream, sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, sliced green onions

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with your spatula, and cook until no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  5. Sprinkle taco seasoning over the meat and stir well to coat evenly.
  6. Add frozen corn and drained black beans, stirring to combine.
  7. Pour in tomato sauce and let simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and sauce to thicken slightly.
  8. In the baking dish, spread half of the crushed tortilla chips on the bottom.
  9. Layer half of the beef mixture over the chips, then sprinkle 1 cup (100 g) of shredded cheese.
  10. Repeat layers: remaining chips, beef mixture, and top with the last cup of cheese.
  11. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly, edges slightly golden.
  12. Optional: Broil for 1-2 minutes for extra crispy edges, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  13. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to set and firm up the cheese.

Notes

Drain excess fat from cooked beef to avoid soggy casserole. Use fresh garlic and onions for better flavor. Layer chips carefully to keep crunch. Watch cheese closely during broiling to prevent burning. You can add a splash of water or extra tomato sauce if casserole looks dry while baking. Preheat oven fully before baking for best results.

Nutrition

Keywords: taco casserole, budget-friendly, easy dinner, cheesy casserole, ground beef recipe, family meal, quick recipe

Find it online: https://tempotaste.com/easy-budget-friendly-taco-casserole-recipe-with-cheesy-perfect-flavor/