Here’s a more detailed breakdown for this Taco Casserole recipe, which has that rich, cheesy enchilada flavor that’s hard to resist!
Taco Casserole Recipe (Detailed Version)
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80-85% lean for flavor)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 1 small can (4 oz) diced green chiles (mild or hot, depending on your preference)
- 16 oz shredded cheddar cheese (about 4 cups; feel free to mix in some Monterey Jack for extra flavor)
- 12 oz bag of tortilla chips (about 6 cups, roughly crushed)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
- Cook the Beef Mixture
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spatula, until the beef is browned and the onions are softened (about 6-8 minutes).
- Drain any excess grease from the skillet to avoid a greasy casserole.
- Add Sauces and Soups
- With the beef and onion mixture still in the skillet, stir in the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, red enchilada sauce, and diced green chiles.
- Mix well until everything is fully combined and smooth.
- Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Layer the Casserole
- In the prepared 9×13 baking dish, spread half of the tortilla chips evenly on the bottom. Lightly crush them with your hands as you layer, but don’t pulverize them – you want some texture.
- Spoon half of the beef mixture over the chips, spreading it into an even layer.
- Sprinkle about half of the shredded cheese over the beef mixture.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining chips, beef mixture, and finally, the rest of the cheese on top.
- Bake
- Place the casserole in the oven and bake, uncovered, for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- For an extra golden, bubbly top, you can broil the casserole on high for the last 2-3 minutes – just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
- Serve
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly.
- Serve with optional toppings like sour cream, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.
Tips:
- Make it Spicy: Use a spicier enchilada sauce, hot green chiles, or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture if you prefer more heat.
- Add Veggies: For extra nutrition, you could layer in black beans, corn, or diced bell peppers with the beef mixture.
- Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle a few extra crushed tortilla chips on top just before serving for added crunch.
- Cheese Tip: Shred your own cheese for a smoother melt, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
Enjoy your delicious, cheesy taco casserole! It’s bound to be a hit for taco night or any gathering.