Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that brings the flavor of Tex-Mex to your dinner table, this taco casserole is a perfect choice. Combining seasoned ground beef, hearty beans, and delicious tortillas topped with melting cheese, this dish is as satisfying as it is straightforward to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 lb ground beef
1 (1 oz) package taco seasoning mix
1 cup chunky salsa
1 cup water
1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
4 (6 inch) flour tortillas, sliced into 1-inch strips
1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
1/4 cup sliced green onions
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6 people
This taco casserole is an effortless and delightful way to enjoy a hearty meal bursting with flavors. With its minimal prep and cooking time, you can enjoy a family-friendly dish that’s both nutritious and tasty!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, over medium heat, brown 1 lb ground beef for 8 to 10 minutes. Continue cooking until the beef is no longer pink and fully cooked through.
Step 2: Drain Excess Grease
After browning the beef, carefully drain any excess grease from the skillet to reduce the fat content in your dish.
Step 3: Add Seasoning and Ingredients
Stir in 1 package (1 oz) taco seasoning mix, 1 cup of water, 1 cup chunky salsa, 1 can (15 oz) drained corn, and 1 can (15 oz) rinsed and drained black beans into the skillet with the beef.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
Cover the skillet and continue to cook the mixture over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Incorporate Tortilla Strips
Add in the sliced tortilla strips (4 tortillas cut into 1-inch strips) and stir well to combine with the sauce.
Step 6: Add Cheese
Top the mixture evenly with 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese.
Step 7: Melt the Cheese
Once the cheese has melted, carefully remove the skillet from heat to prevent overcooking.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Top your dish with 1/4 cup sliced green onions for added flavor and garnish. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
Notes
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
Consider serving with sour cream, avocado, or additional salsa as extra toppings to enhance the presentation and flavor.
Ingredient Variations
Feel free to substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, and use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier twist.
Cook techniques
Browning Ground Beef
Browning ground beef is essential for developing flavor. Use a large skillet over medium heat, crumble the beef into the pan, and cook until it’s uniformly brown and no longer pink, stirring occasionally.
Thickening Sauce
To thicken the sauce, simmer the ingredients covered for a few minutes. This allows the flavors to meld while reducing excess liquid.
Incorporating Tortilla Strips
When adding tortilla strips, ensure they are mixed into the dish evenly. This allows them to soften slightly while still providing texture.
Melting Cheese
Top the mixture with shredded cheese and cover the skillet. This helps the cheese melt evenly and become gooey, creating a delicious topping for the dish.
Garnishing with Green Onions
Add sliced green onions as a fresh garnish just before serving. This enhances presentation and adds crunch and flavor.
FAQ
Can I use other types of meat instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a different flavor profile.
What if I don’t have taco seasoning?
You can make your own taco seasoning using a combination of spices like cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and paprika.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of canned corn and beans?
Absolutely! Fresh corn and cooked black beans can be used, but adjust cooking times for the best results.
Is there a gluten-free option for the tortillas?
Yes, you can use gluten-free tortillas instead of flour tortillas to keep the dish gluten-free.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, consider using hot salsa, adding jalapeños, or sprinkling red pepper flakes on top before serving.
Conclusion
This delicious taco skillet recipe combines the savory flavors of ground beef, zesty salsa, and melty cheese with the heartiness of beans and corn, making it a perfect dish for a family meal or a casual get-together. Quick and easy to prepare, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings while delivering vibrant flavors.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Taco Salad
Swap the ground beef for shredded chicken and serve over a bed of lettuce, topped with salsa, cheese, and avocado.
Vegetarian Burrito Bowl
Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers, add in quinoa or rice, and serve with all your favorite toppings.
Taco-Stuffed Peppers
Use the same beef mixture to stuff bell peppers, top with cheese, and bake until the peppers are tender.
Layered Taco Dip
Layer refried beans, cream cheese, taco meat, salsa, cheese, and green onions in a dish for a perfect party appetizer.
Quesadilla Bake
Use tortillas to create layers of the beef mixture and cheese in a baking dish, bake until golden, and cut into wedges to serve.
