Are you tired of complicated recipes that take hours to prepare? Get ready to revolutionize your dinner routine with the ultimate crowd-pleasing One Dish Taco Bake! This incredible Mexican-inspired dish combines all the bold, zesty flavors you love into one irresistible, easy-to-make meal that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. In just 35 minutes, you'll create a delicious, layered masterpiece that's perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 taco seasoning packet
- 1 can black beans
- 1 cup corn
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 cups tortilla chips
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 lb of ground beef. Cook the beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet. Then, sprinkle the taco seasoning packet over the beef and stir to combine. Follow the instructions on the seasoning packet, usually adding a small amount of water if required, and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
- While the beef is simmering, prepare the other ingredients. Open and drain the can of black beans, rinse them under cold water, and set aside. Measure out 1 cup of corn and 1 cup of salsa.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef with the black beans, corn, and salsa. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- In a 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the tortilla chips at the bottom. Pour half of the beef mixture over the chips, spreading it out evenly. Then, sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining tortilla chips, the rest of the beef mixture, and finish with the remaining shredded cheese on top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from burning during the initial baking.
- Place the covered baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once done, remove the taco bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve.
- Serve the One Dish Taco Bake warm, garnished with optional toppings such as sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy your meal!
Tips
- Drain your ground beef thoroughly to prevent a greasy dish and ensure maximum flavor concentration.
- For extra flavor, consider using homemade taco seasoning instead of a packet for a more personalized taste.
- Use sturdy tortilla chips that won't get too soggy during baking - restaurant-style chips work best.
- Experiment with different cheese blends like pepper jack or a Mexican cheese mix for added excitement.
- Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to help it set and make serving easier.
- For a healthier version, use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey.
- Add some heat by mixing in diced jalapeños or using a spicy salsa if you like things hot!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 65mg
