If you’re looking for a meal that’s both satisfying and Weight Watchers-friendly, this easy taco casserole is a must-try. It’s packed with flavor, featuring layers of seasoned meat, gooey cheese, and crunchy toppings. Perfect for a busy weeknight, it brings all the bold tastes of a taco without the fuss.
Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder that makes clean-up a breeze. Let’s get cooking!
Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned and crumbly, which should take about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Add salsa to the skillet, lower the heat, and simmer until the liquid is absorbed, approximately 20 minutes. Stir in the beans and continue cooking until they are heated through.
- Layer the bottom of the prepared baking dish with crushed tortilla chips, then evenly spread the beef mixture over the top. Layer sour cream over the beef, followed by olives, green onions, and diced tomatoes. Finally, sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese over everything.
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for roughly 30 minutes, until it is hot and bubbly.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your meal!
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 jar salsa
- 1 can chili beans
- 1 can black olives
- Crushed tortilla chips
- Sour cream
- Green onions
- 1 fresh tomato
- Shredded Cheddar cheese
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of meat in the taco casserole?
- Absolutely! While the recipe calls for lean ground beef, you can substitute it with ground turkey or even shredded chicken for a lighter version or to suit different tastes.
- Is it possible to add more flavor to the meat mixture?
- Yes, many people enhance the flavor by mixing in a packet of taco seasoning while cooking the meat. Some also suggest adding a can of chopped green chiles for an extra kick.
- How should I store leftover taco casserole?
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container or covered tightly with storage wrap or foil in the baking dish. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Can taco casserole be frozen for later use?
- Yes, taco casserole freezes quite nicely. It’s best to bake it in a foil pan, then wrap it tightly with storage wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
- What are some good side dishes to serve with taco casserole?
- While the casserole is filling on its own, you can pair it with Mexican side dishes such as Cilantro Lime Rice or Elote. For drinks, a Classic Margarita makes a great accompaniment.
Tips
- Add Extra Flavor: Consider incorporating a packet of taco seasoning into the ground beef while it cooks to enhance the flavor, as suggested by some reviewers. You could also add a 6-ounce can of chopped green chiles for an extra kick.
- Substitute Ingredients: For a healthier alternative, swap out the ground beef with ground turkey or shredded chicken. You can also replace chili beans with corn if desired, as one community member found this substitution to be delicious.
- Storing and Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days. When reheating, use the oven or microwave for best results.
- Freezing Tips: If you plan to freeze the casserole, bake it in a foil pan and wrap it tightly with storage wrap and aluminum foil. This method will keep it fresh in the freezer for up to three months.
Equipment
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish – A specific size for baking casseroles.
- Large Skillet – If someone doesn’t already have a large enough skillet suitable for browning meat.
- Cooking Spray – Although commonly found, some people might not have this at home if they don’t frequently bake or cook.
