Introduction:
Delight in the hearty flavors of this Easy Beef and Bean Taco Casserole! This one-pan dish layers seasoned ground beef, tender beans, and melted cheese for a satisfying meal that’s both simple and delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this casserole brings the taste of tacos to the comfort of your dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and easy to prepare: Minimal prep time with straightforward instructions.
- Family-friendly: A crowd-pleaser that’s sure to satisfy both kids and adults.
- One-pan meal: Simple cleanup with everything baked in one dish.
- Customizable: Add your favorite taco toppings or adjust the spices to your taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Beef:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Flavor and Ingredients:
- Stir in the taco seasoning mix and salsa. Cook for 1-2 minutes until well combined.
- Add the black beans, kidney beans, and corn to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Transfer the beef and bean mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the top.
- Spread the crushed tortilla chips on top of the cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
- Serve:
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Tips for Success:
- Cheese: Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses or add more cheese for a gooier texture.
- Beans: You can substitute or add other types of beans, such as pinto beans or black-eyed peas.
- Spice Level: Adjust the level of spice by using a mild or hot taco seasoning mix based on your preference.
Recipe Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Use a plant-based ground meat substitute and ensure your beans and cheese are vegetarian-friendly.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers, onions, or tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy Version: Add a chopped jalapeño or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for some extra heat.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for added flavor.
- Pair with a simple green salad or some Mexican rice for a complete meal.
Freezing and Storage:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
Special Equipment:
- Skillet: For cooking the ground beef and mixing ingredients.
- Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch dish is ideal for this casserole.
FAQ:
- Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute and will work just as well in this recipe. - Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole and refrigerate it until ready to bake. It can also be frozen for later use. - Can I use homemade taco seasoning?
Absolutely! Use your favorite homemade taco seasoning blend for a personalized touch.
Preparation Time:
- 10 minutes for prepping ingredients and cooking the beef.
Cook Time:
- 25 minutes for baking the casserole.
Total Time:
- 35 minutes (including prep and cook time).
Nutrition Information (per serving, assuming 6 servings):
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fiber: 8g
- Sugar: 6g
Easy Beef and Bean Taco Casserole
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Beef:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Flavor and Ingredients:
- Stir in the taco seasoning mix and salsa. Cook for 1-2 minutes until well combined.
- Add the black beans, kidney beans, and corn to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Transfer the beef and bean mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the top.
- Spread the crushed tortilla chips on top of the cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
- Serve:
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 400kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 22g
Closing Notes:
Have you tried this Easy Beef and Bean Taco Casserole? Share your experience in the comments below! Don’t forget to tag us on social media with your delicious casseroles and check back for more tasty and easy recipes.
