Cheesy Taco Casserole Recipe with Ground Beef

This Easy Taco Casserole is a family favorite and a simple way to refresh taco night. Built in one pan, it combines seasoned ground beef, vegetables, beans, tortilla chips and plenty of melted cheese for a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal.

One Pot Meals

This casserole is truly a one-pot meal when assembled and baked in a large cast-iron skillet. Start by sautéing the meat and aromatics right in the pan, then build the layers and finish it in the oven. Using one vessel means fewer dishes, faster cleanup and a rustic presentation when you serve it directly from the skillet.

To make this a well-rounded dinner, the recipe pairs protein with vegetables and a crunchy grain element — in this case, tortilla chips. A final blanket of shredded Mexican cheese ensures the dish is rich and melty. The balance of savory meat, beans and corn makes it hearty and kid-friendly, while simple toppings let each person customize their plate.

How to Make Taco Casserole

This recipe comes together in a few straightforward steps and takes about 40 minutes total from start to finish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting without a lot of hands-on time.

Sauté the Ground Beef

Place 1 lb. of 85% ground beef in a large cast-iron pan and sauté 3–5 minutes until it is partially cooked. Drain excess fat if desired, then remove the meat from the pan and set it aside briefly.

Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, using the beef’s cooking juices, sauté 1/2 small minced yellow onion and 1 large finely diced red pepper for 3–4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Combine and Layer

Return the beef to the pan, then add 1 (4.5-oz.) can green chiles, 2 tablespoons taco seasoning and 1/2 cup salsa. Sauté 1–2 minutes to bring the mixture to a gentle bubble so the flavors meld. Turn off the heat, then layer on 1 (15-oz.) can rinsed black beans, 1 (15-oz.) can rinsed sweet corn and 2–4 cups tortilla chips. Finish with 8 oz. shredded Mexican cheese spread evenly across the top.

Bake Until Cheese Melts

Move the skillet to a preheated 350ºF (175ºC) oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling. If you prefer a slightly browned top, place under the broiler for 1–2 minutes while watching closely.

What to Serve with Taco Casserole

This taco casserole is satisfying on its own, but bright, cool toppings take it to the next level. Consider offering:

• Greek yogurt or sour cream for creaminess
• Fresh guacamole or sliced avocado
• Extra salsa or pico de gallo
• Chopped cilantro and lime wedges for brightness
• Pickled jalapeños or hot sauce for heat

Easy Taco Casserole

Author: Lee Funke

Prep: 15 mins — Cook: 25 mins — Total: 40 mins — Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 1 lb. 85% ground beef
• 1/2 small yellow onion, minced
• 1 large red pepper, finely diced
• 1 (4.5-oz.) can green chiles
• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
• 1/2 cup salsa
• 1 (15-oz.) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15-oz.) can sweet corn, rinsed and drained
• 2–4 cups tortilla chips
• 8 oz. Mexican shredded cheese

Instructions

1. Place ground beef in a large cast-iron pan and sauté for 3–5 minutes to partially cook. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. In the grease from the beef, sauté the minced yellow onion and diced red pepper for 3–4 minutes or until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the beef back to the pan. Stir in the green chiles, taco seasoning and salsa. Sauté 1–2 minutes until the mixture bubbles and the flavors come together.
4. Turn off the burner. Layer the black beans, sweet corn and tortilla chips over the beef mixture, then sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top.
5. Bake at 350ºF (175ºC) for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted. Optionally, broil briefly to brown the cheese.

Tips & Notes

• Casserole dish option: If you don’t have a cast-iron pan, cook the meat and vegetables in a skillet, then transfer them to a casserole dish to assemble and bake.
• Make it your own: Substitute ground turkey or shredded chicken as desired. Add black olives, diced tomatoes or a layer of refried beans for variation.
• Make-ahead and storage: Assemble the filling in advance and add the chips and cheese just before baking. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days and reheat in the oven or microwave.
• Updated: This recipe was updated on August 1, 2020.

Nutrition

Nutrition information is an approximation per serving:

• Calories: 357 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 34 g
• Protein: 21 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 1 g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an estimate only.

This easy taco casserole is a practical and flavorful way to feed a crowd with minimal fuss. Assemble it in one pan, bake until the cheese is melted, and finish with bright toppings like lime, cilantro and avocado for contrast. It’s a dependable, adaptable recipe that works for weeknights, potlucks or casual gatherings.