Easy Taco Casserole

Directions

  1. 1Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C) and grease a 2-quart casserole dish.
  2. 2Chop the onion and shred the cheese.
  3. 3Cook the beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned and crumbly (5-7 minutes).
  4. 4Drain excess liquid, then add salsa, onion, mayonnaise, chili powder, and cumin; stir to combine.
  5. 5Spread half the beef mixture in the baking dish.
  6. 6Top with half the chips and half the cheese.
  7. 7Repeat layers.
  8. 8Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. 9Serve with guacamole and desired toppings

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 0.5 cup chopped onion
  • 0.5 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 2 cups crushed tortilla chips, divided
  • 4 ounces shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
  • 4 ounces shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided

Equipment

2-quart casserole dishlarge skillet

Tips

  • Serve with toppings like pico de gallo, sour cream, and guacamole.
  • Mix up the cheeses. Mozzarella will give you a nice cheese pull, and Gouda will give it a smoky finish.
  • Shred your own cheese.
  • Use taco seasoning for ease.
  • Make it extra filling by mixing in some beans or corn.
  • Dial up the heat with spicy seasoning or salsa, or chopped jalapeños.
  • Add extra crushed chips on top before serving.
  • Substitute with shredded chicken or pulled pork.
  • Use cream cheese instead of mayo for a thicker filling, but make sure it's at room temperature and beat it until smooth before mixing.
  • Drain the salsa if it's too watery to prevent soggy chips.
  • Use chili instead of the meat mixture to save prep time.