Broken Taco Shell Casserole
A hearty casserole featuring crunchy broken taco shells, seasoned meat, melted cheese, and fresh tomato, perfect for a casual family dinner or taco night.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place half of the broken taco shells in a lightly buttered dish.
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Drain excess fat; add taco seasoning and water to the meat mixture.
- Simmer for 10 minutes, then stir in the tomato sauce.
- Spoon the meat mixture over the shells in the dish.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of grated cheese over the meat.
- Add the remaining broken shells and top with the rest of the cheese.
- Slice the tomato and place it on top of the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding black beans or corn into the meat mixture for extra texture and nutrition. If you want to reduce fat, lean ground turkey can be a great substitute for ground beef. You can also use gluten-free taco shells if you're looking for a gluten-free option. Adding some spices like cumin or chili powder can enhance the overall flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Broken Taco Shell Casserole with a side of Basic Guacamole for a fresh complement. A crisp green salad or Ranchero Corn also pairs beautifully, balancing the richness of the casserole. You can garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or jalapeños for added flavor and heat. It makes a great dish for gatherings or casual family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covering it with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broken Taco Shell Casserole contains roughly 450 calories, with 15g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (54% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and iron (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2532mg per serving (110% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking and then cover it tightly and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
Yes, this casserole is versatile! Ground turkey, chicken, or even shredded beef can be used instead of ground beef. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, consider using a mixture of beans and lentils with the taco seasoning for a hearty alternative.
What can I serve as a side with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with Mexican Dip(Nacho Or Corn Chips) for a fun appetizer. A simple side of Mexican Toast or a fresh fruit salsa can also enhance the meal. For a more filling option, a side of rice or quinoa complements the flavors nicely.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).