Cheesy Taco Casserole: A Family Favorite
Cheesy Taco Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together all the delicious flavors of a classic taco in one satisfying casserole. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or for feeding a crowd at your next gathering. With layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy eggs, and gooey cheese, this casserole is sure to become a new family favorite. In this blog post, we’ll share our recipe for Cheesy Taco Casserole along with tips for variations and keto-friendly options.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken)
- Taco seasoning
- Eggs
- Milk
- Biscuit or baking mix
- Black pepper
- Sour cream
- Shredded lettuce
- Chopped tomatoes
- Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- Sliced black olives
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease.
- Season the Beef: Add taco seasoning to the cooked ground beef according to the package instructions. Stir to combine and set aside.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, biscuit or baking mix, and black pepper until smooth.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the seasoned ground beef evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour the egg mixture over the beef.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of the casserole. Add sliced black olives.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, sour cream, and additional cheese, if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or cooked lentils for a vegetarian version of this casserole.
- Spicy Variation: Add diced jalapeños or green chilies to the egg mixture for an extra kick of heat.
- Tex-Mex Twist: Layer corn tortillas or tortilla chips in between the beef and egg mixture for a Tex-Mex inspired casserole.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly: Omit the biscuit or baking mix and use almond flour or coconut flour instead. Replace the milk with unsweetened almond milk and use full-fat cheese and sour cream.
- Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower rice instead of biscuit or baking mix to reduce the carb content. Load up on low-carb veggies like bell peppers, onions, and spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly if baking from cold.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I use different toppings? A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the toppings to suit your taste. You can add diced avocado, salsa, or jalapeños for extra flavor.
Cheesy Taco Casserole is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With its layers of seasoned beef, creamy eggs, and melty cheese, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re following a keto diet or just looking for a comforting meal the whole family will love, this casserole is a winner. Try making Cheesy Taco Casserole for dinner tonight and enjoy the delicious flavors of taco night in an easy-to-make casserole!