Ground Beef Taco Casserole

Name: Ground Beef Taco Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 6 small flour tortillas, cut into quarters; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); 1/2 cup chopped onion; 1/2 cup sliced olives (optional); Sour cream and fresh cilantro for serving

Highlighted under: Warm Comfort Food Ideas

When I crave a comforting dish that also brings a burst of flavor, I turn to my Ground Beef Taco Casserole. Combining the richness of seasoned ground beef with a medley of veggies, layers of gooey cheese, and warm tortillas, this casserole has become a go-to in my household. It’s easy to throw together, and the best part is how it feeds a crowd without much fuss. Each bite is a delightful explosion of classic taco flavors that everyone loves.

Created by

Cecilia Grant

Last updated on 2026-02-01T20:37:35.571Z

Every time I make my Ground Beef Taco Casserole, I’m reminded of those fun family taco nights. I experimented a bit with the layering, mixing in black beans and corn for added nutrition, which not only enriches the dish but gives it a vibrant color. The way the cheese melts into the seasoned beef topping is just heavenly!

One tip I learned is to let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve and enjoy each delightful bite. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich taco flavors combined in a comforting casserole
Cheesy goodness that stretches with every scoop
Perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeknights

Understanding the Ingredients

The beauty of the Ground Beef Taco Casserole lies in its versatility and the roles each ingredient plays. Ground beef provides a hearty base that pairs exceptionally well with the bold flavors of taco seasoning. For a leaner option, consider using ground turkey or chicken. The black beans add protein and a creamy texture, while corn introduces a touch of sweetness that balances the spices. Diced tomatoes with green chilies not only contribute moisture, but also a pleasant kick that enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Tortillas serve as the glue that holds the layers together, absorbing the savory juices as the casserole bakes. Opt for flour tortillas for a softer texture, or try corn tortillas for a more traditional taste. When cutting your tortillas, aim for uniform pieces to ensure even coverage and consistent cooking. Shredded cheese is crucial for that gooey, melted layer on top; I recommend a mix of cheddar and a Mexican blend for depth of flavor and the perfect stretch.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

Begin by browning the ground beef properly; this step enhances the flavor as it caramelizes. Make sure to crumble the meat well during cooking for even browning. Use a wooden spatula to break up large pieces and stir gently. If your skillet seems too greasy, keep a slotted spoon handy to remove excess fat, ensuring your casserole doesn’t become soggy. Simmering the mixture after adding the seasoning allows the spices to meld beautifully, creating a well-rounded flavor before you layer them in the dish.

The layering process is key to achieving a beautifully baked casserole. Start with the tortilla layer, then add a generous scoop of the beef mixture followed by cheese, ensuring each layer is evenly distributed. This arrangement allows the tortillas to soften and soak up the flavors while preventing them from becoming mushy. When baking, keep an eye on the casserole during the last few minutes; the goal is a bubbly, golden cheese top. If you notice it browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your flavorful taco casserole.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
6 small flour tortillas, cut into quarters
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup sliced olives (optional)
Sour cream and fresh cilantro for serving

Now that you have the ingredients ready, let’s move on to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Ground Beef Taco Casserole.

Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 3 minutes.

Add Seasoning and Beans

Mix in the taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to combine the flavors.

Layer the Casserole

In a greased baking dish, layer half of the tortilla quarters on the bottom. Spoon half of the beef mixture over the tortillas and sprinkle with one cup of cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.

Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with sour cream and fresh cilantro on top for added flavor.

Your delicious Ground Beef Taco Casserole is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding jalapeños or bell peppers to the beef mixture or serve with your favorite taco toppings, like guacamole or pico de gallo.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This casserole is an excellent make-ahead meal. You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking stage, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply increase the baking time slightly, as it may require an additional 10-15 minutes when coming straight from the fridge. For freezer storage, assemble and wrap the unbaked casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, where it can be kept for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking for best results.

Leftovers are a great reason to love this dish! Store the cooled casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. Alternatively, individual portions can be microwaved for 2-3 minutes. Just be careful not to overheat, as this can lead to rubbery cheese and dry tortillas.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serve your Ground Beef Taco Casserole with a dollop of sour cream and fresh cilantro on top for a burst of freshness. Adding avocado or guacamole can introduce a creamy texture that complements the casserole perfectly. For those who like heat, incorporate sliced jalapeños either in the beef mixture or as a garnish when serving. Pair it with a side of Mexican rice or a simple green salad to round out the meal.

Feel free to customize the ingredients to match your dietary needs or preferences. Swap ground beef for plant-based options, like lentils or crumbled tempeh, and you’ll still enjoy a hearty, satisfying casserole. If you’re avoiding dairy, you can substitute vegan cheese or omit it entirely, allowing the seasonings and veggies to shine through. Experimenting with different beans or even adding some diced bell peppers can also keep this dish exciting every time you make it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.

→ Can I freeze this taco casserole?

Absolutely! After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or a meat substitute.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.