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Taco Casserole baked with cheese, beef, beans, and toppings

Taco Casserole

This cheesy Taco Casserole is packed with seasoned beef, beans, corn, and salsa, then topped with melted cheese and your favorite toppings. A hearty family-friendly dinner!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 portions
Course: Casserole, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Calories: 554

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tbsp avocado oil or any cooking oil
  • 1 medium (about 2 cups) onion diced
  • 1 large (about 1.5 cups) bell pepper any color
  • 1 lb ground beef 85/15 lean works best
  • 3 tbsp taco seasoning store-bought or homemade
  • 15 oz can black beans drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups frozen corn adds sweetness and texture
  • 2 cups fresh salsa from refrigerated section for freshness
  • 3 cups pepperjack cheese grated, for topping
  • toppings sour cream, avocado, tortilla chips, etc.

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Oven
  • Mixing Spoon

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add avocado oil, onion, and bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  3. Add ground beef and taco seasoning. Cook, stirring frequently, until beef is browned and no longer pink.
  4. Stir in black beans, frozen corn, and fresh salsa. Turn off the heat and mix in 1 cup of cheese until melted.
  5. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top evenly with the remaining 2 cups of cheese.
  6. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
  7. Let the casserole cool slightly. Add desired toppings like sour cream, avocado slices, shredded lettuce, or tortilla chips before serving.

Notes

This casserole is versatile: swap beef for ground turkey or chicken, or make it vegetarian by doubling the beans and adding more veggies.