Easy Layered Taco Bake
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Today, I’m excited to share a new, delicious way to switch up Taco Tuesday with minimal effort. If you’re looking to elevate your taco game, this recipe is a must-try—and the best part is you only need five simple ingredients to make it!
It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a flavorful meal that comes together quickly but still feels fun and different. This dish combines classic taco meat with creamy salsa con queso, creating a rich and delicious filling. The mixture is then layered between flour tortillas topped with shredded cheese, creating a cheesy, taco-inspired casserole that’s both easy and satisfying.
Once baked, it’s cut into wedges and served like a pie, giving you a fun twist on traditional tacos. To make it your own, top each slice with your favorite taco toppings, like sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or lettuce. It’s a simple way to add some excitement to taco night without extra work!
Ingredients to Make Easy Layered Taco Bake
- GROUND BEEF
- PACKET TACO SEASONING
- WATER
- SALSA CON QUESO
- TACO SIZED FLOUR TORTILLAS (8-INCH)
- SHREDDED MEXICAN CHEESE
How to Make Easy Layered Taco Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly spray an 8-inch round casserole dish or springform pan with nonstick cooking spray.
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, then drain any excess grease. Add the taco seasoning and the water specified on the seasoning packet (usually 3/4 cup). Follow the packet directions to finish preparing the taco meat.
Once the taco meat is ready, turn off the heat and stir in 1/2 cup of salsa con queso to give the filling a creamy, cheesy boost.
Place one flour tortilla at the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Spread 1/3 of the taco meat mixture evenly over the tortilla, then sprinkle 1/3 of the shredded Mexican cheese blend on top.
Repeat this process twice: add another tortilla, followed by 1/3 of the beef mixture and 1/3 of the cheese. Finish with the last tortilla, taco meat, and cheese on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortillas’ edges are golden brown.
Let the layered taco bake cool for a few minutes before slicing it into wedges. Serve like a taco pie with your favorite taco toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or lettuce. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it perfect for a quick and easy dinner! Enjoy this fun twist on taco night!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Yes, you can substitute corn tortillas if you prefer or want a gluten-free option. Keep in mind that corn tortillas are smaller and more delicate, so you may need to use more of them, so adjust the layering accordingly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the layered taco bake ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, take it out of the fridge and bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes to account for the chill.
Can I add extra ingredients to the taco bake?
Absolutely! You can customize this recipe by adding ingredients like black beans, corn, diced onions, or bell peppers to the taco meat mixture. This will add flavor and texture to the dish.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
What toppings go well with this taco bake?
You can top the taco bake with various toppings, including sour cream, guacamole, salsa, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, green onion, jalapeños, black olives, and chopped cilantro. These toppings add fresh flavors and textures to the dish.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef for a lighter option. Follow the same instructions for browning the meat and seasoning with taco seasoning.
FOR MORE RECIPES LIKE THIS, TRY:
Easy Layered Taco Bake
Real Mom Kitchen
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1.25 ox pkg taco seasoning
- water as called for on back of seasoning packet usually 3/4 cup water
- ½ cup salsa con queso
- 3 flour tortillas 8-inch soft taco size
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend divided
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350F degrees.
- In a skillet, brown ground beef until fully cooked and drain off excess grease.
- Add the taco seasoning and water as called for on the back of the seasoning packet (usually 3/4 cup). Then, follow the directions on the back of the seasoning packet.
- Once the taco meat is ready, turn off the heat and mix in 1/2 cup salsa con queso.
- Spray an 8-inch round baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.
- Layer the bottom of the pan with one of the flour tortillas. Next, layer 1/3 of the ground beef taco filling followed with 1/3 of the shredded Mexican cheese blend.
- Repeat layers 2 more times: another tortilla, 1/3 of the taco mixture, 1/3 of the cheese.
- Bake at 350F degrees for about 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted and edges are slightly golden brown.
- Allow to cool for a couple of minutes. Slice and serve. Top with desired toppings. Serves 4-6.
Nutrition
Recipe adapted from The Country Cook.
