Introduction

This Easy Layered Taco Bake is a delicious and simple way to enjoy all the flavors of tacos in a comforting casserole. With layers of seasoned beef, creamy salsa con queso, melty cheese, and soft tortillas, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.

The image shows a layered dish with three visible layers: the bottom is a white tortilla, topped with a thick layer of cooked ground meat that is brown and crumbly, then covered with melted cheese that is melted and gooey, mixing yellow and white colors. The edges of the cheese have slightly browned and crispy spots. The dish rests on a white marbled surface over a wooden board, with a blue and white striped cloth nearby. In the background, there are two clear glass bowls, one with shredded cheese and the other with chopped red tomatoes. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning
Water as called for on back of seasoning packet (usually 3/4 cup)
1/2 cup salsa con queso
3 (8-inch) flour tortillas
2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (divided use)

Instructions

Step 1: Brown and crumble 1 pound ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain any excess grease.
Step 2: Add 1 packet taco seasoning and the amount of water indicated on the seasoning packet (usually 3/4 cup). Stir and cook according to the packet instructions until the sauce thickens.
Step 3: Turn off the heat and stir in 1/2 cup salsa con queso until well combined with the taco meat.
Step 4: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray an 8-inch round baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 5: Layer one flour tortilla on the bottom of the prepared pan.
Step 6: Spread about one-third of the taco meat mixture evenly over the tortilla.
Step 7: Sprinkle one-third of the shredded Mexican cheese blend over the meat layer.
Step 8: Repeat the layers with the second tortilla, another one-third of the taco meat, and cheese, then a final layer with the last tortilla, remaining meat, and cheese.
Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges are slightly golden brown.
Step 10: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite taco toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, or chopped cilantro.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños to the taco meat or sprinkle cayenne pepper into the salsa con queso.
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Try using corn tortillas instead of flour for a different texture and flavor.
Add a layer of black beans or corn between the meat and cheese layers for extra heartiness.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can also freeze the bake for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

A slice of layered taco casserole sits on a white plate, showing three thick layers: a bottom crust layer, a middle layer of seasoned ground beef mixed with melted yellow and light brown cheese, and a top layer covered with more melted cheese. On top of the slice is a dollop of white sour cream with small red tomato chunks placed on it and around the plate. The background shows clear glass bowls with shredded cheese and chopped tomatoes on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils, black beans, or a meat substitute to keep the dish vegetarian while maintaining the hearty texture.

What can I use instead of salsa con queso?

If you don’t have salsa con queso, you can use a blend of salsa and cream cheese or a cheesy dip of your choice for similar creamy flavor and texture.