Description
The Layered Taco Bake is a simple, delicious, and taco-inspired casserole that combines layers of seasoned ground beef, tortillas, and melted cheese into a savory, comforting dish. It’s a great choice for a quick weeknight meal or a casual gathering, as it requires minimal prep and is ready in under an hour. Plus, it’s highly customizable—perfect for using up ingredients you already have on hand!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 3/4 cup water (as per seasoning packet instructions)
- 1/2 cup salsa con queso
- 3 pieces 8-inch flour tortillas (soft taco size)
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (divided use)
Optional Toppings:
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Chopped tomatoes
- Lettuce
- Jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet, brown 1 lb of ground beef over medium-high heat, crumbling it as it cooks. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
- Season the Beef:
- Add the taco seasoning packet to the browned beef, along with 3/4 cup of water. Stir and simmer for 3-5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in 1/2 cup salsa con queso until fully combined, creating a creamy, flavorful filling.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8-inch round baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.
- Assemble the Bake:
- Place one tortilla at the bottom of the prepared pan. Spread 1/3 of the beef mixture evenly over the tortilla, followed by 1/3 of the shredded cheese.
- Repeat this layering process two more times, ending with a final layer of cheese on top.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the tortillas are golden.
- Serve:
- Allow the bake to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with optional toppings like sour cream, guacamole, chopped tomatoes, lettuce, or jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.
Notes
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the taco bake up to a day in advance and refrigerate it, covered, until you’re ready to bake.
- Freezing: This recipe can also be frozen, either before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
- Customizations: Feel free to substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or corn for extra nutrition.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas for a gluten-free version of this dish.