Sour Cream Taco Casserole
A creamy, cheesy taco casserole featuring ground beef, tomatoes, jalapenos, and sour cream layered with tortillas, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, cook chopped onion in 2 tablespoons of shortening until soft.
- Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Brown ground beef in the same skillet.
- Mix sour cream, drained tomatoes, chopped jalapenos, shredded American cheese, and cooked onion into the browned ground beef.
- Line the bottom of a large casserole dish with tortillas.
- Top with the beef mixture.
- Let stand for 2 hours.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding more jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a creamier texture, use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream. This dish can also be customized with additional vegetables like bell peppers or corn, similar to what you might find in other Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Sour Cream Taco Casserole hot from the oven, garnished with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or avocado slices. It pairs beautifully with a side of crunchy Taco Salads or a refreshing Mexican Caldo for a complete meal. For added flavor, consider serving with tortilla chips and salsa on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven will keep the texture better.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sour Cream Taco Casserole contains roughly 527 calories, with 25g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (60% of the Daily Value), protein (49% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 a day in advance. Simply assemble the layers and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator, and bake it when you're ready to serve. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for corn tortillas?
If you don't have corn tortillas, you can use flour tortillas or even tortilla chips for a different texture. If using chips, layer them like you would the tortillas and reduce the baking time slightly to avoid overcooking. This flexibility allows for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Can I freeze the Sour Cream Taco Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
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).