It’s 6pm, you’re tired, and everyone’s hungry. This taco casserole with tortillas is the perfect solution for your busy weeknight. It delivers all the bold flavors of taco night with half the effort.
You just need a few pantry staples and 30 minutes in the oven. The result is a warm, comforting meal that kids and adults will love. It is the ultimate way to feed a hungry crowd without any stress.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This dish is perfect for those busy fall evenings when schedules feel packed. It combines tender ground beef with savory black beans and sweet corn. The corn tortillas soften beautifully as they bake, creating a texture like lasagna.
You will love how the sharp cheddar cheese melts into every single layer. It is a complete meal in one pan, so cleanup is incredibly fast. Your family will definitely ask for seconds of this cheesy goodness.
Easy Cooking Steps
Making this dish is as simple as browning meat and layering ingredients. You do not need any special culinary skills to get this right. Even beginner cooks can master this recipe on the first try.
The secret is using pre-cut tortilla strips to save extra prep time. Once you assemble the layers, the oven does all the hard work for you. It comes out bubbly, golden, and ready to enjoy in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Most of these items are likely already sitting in your pantry or freezer right now.
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 12 small corn tortillas, cut into 1-inch strips
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until cooked through, draining any excess fat.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and water, simmering for 5 minutes until thickened.
- Fold in the black beans and corn until evenly distributed.
- Spread a thin layer of salsa at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Layer half of the tortilla strips over the salsa, followed by half of the meat mixture and half of the shredded cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining tortilla strips, meat mixture, and cheese.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with sour cream and cilantro.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this dish warm with a side of fresh avocado slices or guacamole. A crisp green salad helps balance the richness of the melted cheese. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lime for extra brightness.
This casserole is a hit at potlucks and gatherings because it travels so well. Simply cover the dish with foil to keep it warm during transport. It is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. This meal actually tastes even better the next day as flavors meld. It is a fantastic option for your weekly meal prep lunches.
To reheat, place a slice in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes. This helps the tortilla layers stay firm rather than getting too soft. You can also use a microwave for a quick and easy lunch.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t skip the 5-minute resting time after baking to let layers set.
- Drain the beef thoroughly to prevent the casserole from becoming too oily.
- Use corn tortillas instead of flour for the best authentic texture.
- Prep the meat mixture ahead of time to save minutes on busy nights.
- Add a handful of fresh summer peppers for extra crunch and color.
- Grate your own cheese for a much smoother and creamier melt.
Easy Flavor Ideas
- Swap the ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner protein option.
- Use dairy-free cheese shreds to make this recipe completely lactose-free.
- Add diced jalapeños to the meat mixture if you want extra heat.
- Stir in some black olives for a classic taco topping flavor.
Common Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the layers and keep it covered in the fridge. Just add five extra minutes to the bake time when cooking from cold. It is a great make-ahead meal for your busiest days.
Will my kids eat this?
Most kids love the mild taco flavor and the gooey melted cheese. If they are picky about beans, you can mash them slightly before adding. It is a very kid-friendly dinner that parents love too.
Can I use flour tortillas?
You can, but they will be much softer than corn tortillas. Corn tortillas provide a sturdier structure that holds up better to the salsa. Both options will still taste delicious with the beef.
I hope this cozy taco casserole with tortillas brings some ease to your busy weeknights. It is a simple, satisfying meal that always makes my family smile. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
— Alex
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup wate r
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 12 small corn tortillas, cut into 1-inch strips
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sals a
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until cooked through, draining any excess fat.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and water, simmering for 5 minutes until thickened.
- Fold in the black beans and corn until evenly distributed.
- Spread a thin layer of salsa at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Layer half of the tortilla strips over the salsa, followed by half of the meat mixture and half of the shredded cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining tortilla strips, meat mixture, and cheese.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with sour cream and cilantro.
