Layered Taco Casserole
A hearty layered taco casserole combining seasoned beef, cheese, and crunchy chips, perfect for a flavorful family dinner or casual gathering with bold Tex-Mex flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 2-quart casserole, place the ground beef.
- Microwave on High for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring after 3 minutes.
- Drain the beef and remove from casserole.
- In the casserole, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add diced green chilies and cook for 2 minutes.
- Stir in tomato sauce, taco seasoning mix, and water.
- Simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
- In a bowl, beat eggs and dairy half and half together.
- Pour the egg mixture over the beef mixture in the casserole.
- Layer corn chips over the mixture.
- Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes until bubbly and cheese melts.
- Garnish with sour cream before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also replace the corn chips with tortilla strips for a crunchier texture. If you prefer a spicier dish, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the meat mixture. Pair this casserole with a fresh salad for a complete meal, or enjoy it as part of a Mexican recipes night.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the layered taco casserole hot, garnished with a dollop of sour cream and fresh cilantro for extra flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of Fiesta Rice or a simple green salad. For a fun twist, offer toppings like diced tomatoes, avocado, or sliced olives for guests to customize their servings, similar to how you might with Taco Bites.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating, but the oven will help maintain the crispy texture of the cheese and corn chips.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Layered Taco Casserole contains roughly 1044 calories, with 26g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 79g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (51% of the Daily Value), calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance. Assemble it without baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven, or increase the baking time if it's still cold.
What can I substitute for Monterey Jack cheese?
If you don't have Monterey Jack cheese, you can use cheddar cheese or a Mexican blend cheese for a similar flavor profile. Both options will melt nicely and complement the taco flavors in the casserole.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with black beans or lentils, and ensure any cheese used is vegetarian-friendly. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to enhance the texture and nutrition of the dish.
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).