Description
A hearty, kid-approved weeknight dinner that comes together in 30 minutes. This easy casserole combines browned ground beef, salsa, beans, and corn layered with crunchy tortilla chips and melted cheese for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs (680g) 80/20 ground beef
- 1 bag (10 oz / 280g) sturdy tortilla chips, crushed
- 1.5 cups (360ml) medium salsa
- 2 cups (200g) shredded Mexican blend or Cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 can (15 oz / 425g) black beans, rinsed
- 1 cup (150g) frozen corn
- Optional toppings: Green onions, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and break into small crumbles. Cook for 6-8 minutes until fully browned. If using lean beef, drain excess fat. Stir in taco seasoning and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Add salsa, rinsed black beans, and frozen corn to the skillet. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the mixture bubbles and thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Spread half of the crushed tortilla chips into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Pour the beef mixture evenly over the chips. Top with half of the shredded cheese.
- Add the remaining crushed chips on top, followed by the rest of the cheese.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow the structure to set.
- Garnish with green onions, sour cream, and cilantro. Serve warm.
Notes
For best results, shred your own cheese to ensure smooth melting. Do not skip the 5-minute resting time after baking, or the casserole may be too loose to serve cleanly. For a vegetarian version, substitute beef with kidney beans or plant-based ground meat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 680
- Fat: 24
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 32
- Fiber: 5
- Protein: 28
Keywords: taco casserole, ground beef recipe, easy weeknight dinner, cheesy casserole, 30 minute meals, family friendly recipes, one pan dinner