Equipment

• 9×9 inch baking dish
• Large skillet
• Medium mixing bowl
• Non-stick cooking spray
• Spoon or spatula for mixing

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 can Ro*Tel diced tomatoes with chiles, drained
• 1 can Nacho Cheese Soup
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 12 8-inch soft tortillas
• Optional toppings: guacamole, cilantro, additional sour cream

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (177°C) and prepare your 9×9 inch baking dish by spraying it with non-stick spray.
2. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s fully browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
3. Season the Beef: Stir in the taco seasoning and water to the skillet with the browned beef. Allow it to simmer for about 2 minutes until everything is well combined and slightly thickened.
4. Mix the Casserole Base: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the drained Ro*Tel tomatoes, nacho cheese soup, and sour cream. Add the cooked meat and stir until everything is mixed thoroughly.
5. Layer the Casserole: Place three tortillas in the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Top with a third of the meat mixture. Repeat the layers twice more, finishing with a final layer of tortillas on top.
6. Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top layer of tortillas. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the casserole is hot throughout and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro, a scoop of guacamole, and a dollop of sour cream as desired.

Serving Suggestions

This Taco Casserole pairs wonderfully with a side of Mexican rice or a simple salad dressed with lime vinaigrette. For those who like a little extra heat, serving with a side of jalapeño slices or a spicy salsa can enhance the flavors.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to a day in advance. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if it’s coming straight from the refrigerator.

What substitutions can I make? For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also use low-fat cheese and sour cream.

How do I store leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until thoroughly warmed.

Is there a vegetarian option? Yes, replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or cooked quinoa mixed with black beans for a vegetarian-friendly version without losing the hearty texture.

This Taco Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a festive, fun, and delicious way to bring everyone together. So, dive into this delightful dish and let every layer surprise you with its robust flavors and comforting warmth. Enjoy the melding of classic taco elements with the homestyle feel of a baked casserole!