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Easy Layered Taco Bake Recipe

4.8 from 84 reviews

This Easy Layered Taco Bake is a crowd-pleasing layered casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, melty Mexican cheese, and soft flour tortillas baked to perfection. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it combines classic taco flavors into a hearty, cheesy bake that the entire family will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat Mixture

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 3/4 cup water (adjust as per seasoning packet instructions)
  • 1/2 cup salsa con queso

Assembly

  • 3 (8-inch) flour tortillas (soft taco size)
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (divided use)

Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook and crumble 1 pound ground beef until fully browned. Drain excess grease to prevent sogginess.
  2. Season the Meat: Add 1 packet taco seasoning and about 3/4 cup water (follow the packet instructions) to the beef. Stir and simmer until the mixture thickens and is fully combined.
  3. Add Salsa Con Queso: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 1/2 cup salsa con queso until evenly mixed with the taco meat for added creamy flavor.
  4. Prepare Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray an 8-inch round baking pan with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  5. Layer the First Tortilla: Place one flour tortilla evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking pan as the base layer.
  6. First Layer of Filling: Spoon approximately one-third of the taco beef mixture over the bottom tortilla, spreading it evenly.
  7. Add Cheese: Sprinkle one-third of the shredded Mexican cheese blend over the meat layer for a gooey cheesy layer.
  8. Repeat Layers: Add the second tortilla on top of the cheese, then another third of the beef mixture, followed by another third of the cheese. Repeat once more to build all three layers.
  9. Bake: Place the layered bake in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and edges are slightly golden.
  10. Serve: Allow the bake to cool for a few minutes to set, then slice into portions. Serve topped with your favorite additions like sour cream, guacamole, or fresh salsa.

Notes

  • Salsa con queso adds a creamy texture; substitute with a mild cheese dip or extra salsa if unavailable.
  • For a spicier dish, use a spicy taco seasoning or add jalapeños between layers.
  • Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free alternative, though texture will differ.
  • Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: taco bake, layered taco casserole, ground beef taco recipe, cheesy taco bake, easy taco dinner