Excellent Taco Casserole

Excellent Taco Casserole is a fun, flavorful twist on classic tacos, turning everything you love into one hearty, oven-baked dish. Cheesy, colorful, and loaded with bold Tex-Mex flavor, it’s the kind of comfort food that brings everyone to the table.

This casserole layers crunchy tortilla chips with seasoned ground beef, beans, corn, and salsa, then finishes with a generous blanket of melted cheese. As it bakes, the flavors meld together while still keeping satisfying texture in every bite.

One of the best things about this recipe is how simple and adaptable it is. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or casual gatherings, and it allows everyone to customize their serving with fresh toppings after baking.

Serve it warm and piled high with lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, and your favorite taco toppings. It’s easy, crowd-pleasing, and guaranteed to disappear fast.

Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning
1/2 cup water
1 bag tortilla chips, lightly crushed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
1 cup salsa
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican-blend cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese

Toppings (added after baking)

1 cup shredded lettuce
1 cup diced tomatoes
1/2 cup sour cream
Sliced green onions, jalapeños, or olives, optional

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
Stir in the taco seasoning and water, then simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until thickened.
Spread the crushed tortilla chips evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Layer the black beans, corn, seasoned beef, and salsa evenly over the chips.
Sprinkle the shredded cheeses evenly over the top.
Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to cool slightly.
Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and any additional toppings before serving.

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
Add diced green chiles or jalapeños for extra heat.
Swap tortilla chips for cooked rice or crushed taco shells.
Make it vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding extra beans.

Tips

Lightly crush the chips to create even layers without turning them to crumbs.
Add fresh toppings only after baking to keep them crisp.
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving so it sets slightly.
Serve with extra salsa or hot sauce on the side for added flavor.