Layered Taco Bake

This Layered Taco Bake combines the best of taco night with the convenience of a bake. It’s packed with flavor and perfect for feeding a crowd.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning mix
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 cup salsa
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)

For Garnish:

• Sliced jalapeños (optional)
• Diced tomatoes
• Shredded lettuce

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning mix and water, and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of salsa on the bottom. Add a layer of seasoned beef mixture, then sprinkle with black beans and corn.
4. Spread a layer of sour cream over the beef mixture, then top with shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips over the cheese layer.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, sliced black olives, and green onions if desired. Serve with sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, and shredded lettuce.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings (1 cup each)

Variations

• Add more spice: Incorporate chopped jalapeños into the beef mixture or use spicy salsa.
• For a vegetarian version: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or extra beans.
• Extra crunch: Layer more crushed tortilla chips or add a sprinkle of crushed nacho chips before baking.

Storage

• Storage: Cover and refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

• Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for a lighter option.

1. Can I freeze this dish?

• Yes, you can freeze it. Just assemble, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen or thaw overnight before baking.

1. What can I use instead of sour cream?

• Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream.

1. Can I use homemade tortilla chips?

• Absolutely! Homemade tortilla chips can add a fresh, crunchy element.

1. How do I make this spicier?

• Add sliced jalapeños to the beef mixture or use hot salsa.

1. Can I prepare this in advance?

• Yes, you can assemble the taco bake ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

1. What can I use instead of black beans?

• You can use pinto beans or kidney beans as an alternative.

1. How can I make this dish dairy-free?

• Substitute dairy ingredients with non-dairy alternatives like vegan cheese and yogurt.

1. What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?

• You can use Monterey Jack, Mexican blend cheese, or any cheese you prefer.

1. Can I add vegetables?
   • Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the beef mixture.

Conclusion

This Layered Taco Bake is a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. With its rich layers of beef, cheese, and crispy tortilla chips, it’s sure to become a favorite comfort food! Enjoy!

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