Loaded Taco Beef Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Loaded Taco Beef Casserole is a flavorful, comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights. It’s packed with seasoned beef, beans, corn, and cheese, all baked together for a satisfying meal the whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20) (leaner if you prefer)
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2–3 tbsp homemade blend)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn, frozen or canned (thawed or drained)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or Mexican rice)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot to taste)
• Chopped green onions (for garnish, to taste)
• Cilantro (for garnish, to taste)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch or similar baking dish.
2. Step 2: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until no pink remains. Drain any excess fat.
3. Step 3: Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and add water as directed on the packet. Stir and simmer briefly until the seasoning is well distributed.
4. Step 4: In a large bowl, combine the seasoned beef with black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, cooked rice, and salsa. Mix until evenly combined.
5. Step 5: Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
6. Step 6: Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling and the casserole is heated through.
7. Step 7: Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.
• Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce in the beef mixture for extra heat.
• Substitute the rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Top with avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream when serving for added creaminess.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole covered with foil in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh when ready to eat, adding a few extra minutes to cook time if baking straight from the fridge.

Can I freeze the leftover casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Loaded Taco Beef Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 97 reviews

This Loaded Taco Beef Casserole is a hearty and flavorful one-dish meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining seasoned ground beef with black beans, corn, tomatoes, rice, and salsa, then topped with melted cheese and fresh green onions and cilantro, it brings a delicious Mexican-inspired comfort food to your table with minimal effort.

• Author: Sana
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20) (leaner if you prefer)
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2–3 tbsp homemade blend)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn, frozen or canned (thawed or drained)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or Mexican rice)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot to taste)

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions, to taste
• Cilantro, to taste

Instructions

1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch or similar baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Cook the Beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it, breaking it up with a spatula, until no pink remains. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
3. Add Seasoning: Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked beef, add water according to the packet instructions, stir well, and simmer briefly to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the seasoned beef with black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, cooked rice, and salsa until thoroughly combined.
5. Assemble the Casserole: Spoon the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and spread it flat. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top for a cheesy finish.
6. Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and the casserole is heated through.
7. Rest and Garnish: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro before serving for added flavor and color.

Notes

• You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef for a leaner option.
• Use homemade taco seasoning for a healthier, customizable flavor.
• Leftover casserole keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Great for meal prepping; just reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Keywords: taco beef casserole, ground beef casserole, Mexican casserole, easy dinner, weeknight meal, one dish meal, cheesy casserole