Description

Craving a hearty, flavor-packed dish that brings all the bold flavors of tacos to your table? Look no further than Taco Casserole! This comforting casserole layers seasoned ground beef with creamy soups, tangy enchilada sauce, green chilis, and crunchy tortilla chips, all topped with a generous layer of melty cheddar cheese. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game day feasts, this dish is as easy to make as it is delicious.

Ingredients

This casserole comes together with ingredients that create a cheesy, savory, and slightly spicy dish. Here’s what you need and why each matters:

Ground Beef (1½ pounds): Provides a hearty, protein-packed base with rich flavor.
Medium Onion (1, diced): Adds sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup (10½ oz): Contributes creaminess and umami to the sauce.
Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup (10½ oz): Enhances the creamy texture and adds savory flavor.
Red Enchilada Sauce (10 oz, mild): Brings tangy, mildly spicy Tex-Mex flavor.
Canned Green Chilis (4 oz): Add a mild heat and subtle smokiness.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese (16 oz, shredded): Melts into a gooey, flavorful topping.
Tortilla Chips (12 oz, about 1 bag): Create crunchy layers that soften slightly during baking.

Substitutions and Variations

Ground Beef: Swap for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Onion: Use red onion or shallots for a different flavor, or omit for a simpler dish.
Soups: Replace with cream of celery or cream of onion soup, or use a homemade white sauce for a from-scratch version.
Enchilada Sauce: Use green enchilada sauce or a spicier red sauce for more heat.
Chilis: Substitute with diced jalapeños for extra spice or omit for a milder flavor.
Cheese: Use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend for a different cheesy profile.
Tortilla Chips: Swap for corn tortillas or crushed Doritos for added flavor.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortilla chips, soups, and enchilada sauce.

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish or a similar-sized baking dish.
Cook the Beef and Onion:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown 1½ pounds ground beef with 1 diced medium onion until the beef is cooked through and the onion is soft (about 5–7 minutes).
- Drain excess fat from the skillet to prevent a greasy casserole.
Make the Sauce:
- Add 10½ oz condensed cream of mushroom soup, 10½ oz condensed cream of chicken soup, 10 oz mild red enchilada sauce, and 4 oz canned green chilis to the skillet with the beef and onion.
- Stir to combine and simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and well blended.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread half of the 12 oz tortilla chips (broken into large pieces, not crumbs) across the bottom of the greased casserole dish to cover evenly.
- Pour half of the beef and sauce mixture over the chips, spreading it evenly.
- Add another layer of the remaining tortilla chips, followed by the rest of the beef mixture.
- Sprinkle 16 oz shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Bake:
- Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbly.
Broil for a Golden Finish:
- Switch the oven to broil and broil the casserole for 2 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbling. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Scoop into bowls or serve on plates, optionally garnished with toppings like sour cream, diced tomatoes, or chopped cilantro.

Cooking Tips

Break Chips Lightly: Break tortilla chips into large pieces to maintain texture; avoid crushing into fine crumbs, as they’ll soften during baking.
Drain Beef Well: Remove excess fat after browning to keep the casserole from being oily.
Even Layers: Spread chips and beef mixture evenly for consistent flavor and texture in every bite.
Watch the Broiler: Stay close during broiling, as the cheese can burn quickly.