If you're craving a delicious, comforting, and easy-to-make Mexican-inspired casserole, this Easy Layered Taco Bake is the perfect dish! With layers of seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, soft tortillas, and bold flavors from enchilada sauce, tomatoes, and green chilies, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit at the dinner table. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this simple dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Quick & Easy – Made with simple pantry staples and ready in under an hour.
✔️ Crowd-Pleaser – A guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.
✔️ Customizable – Adjust the spice level, swap out ingredients, or add your favorite toppings.
✔️ Perfect for Leftovers – Even better the next day!
Ingredients & Their Roles
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef – The base of the casserole, providing hearty texture and rich flavor. (Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.)
- 1 onion, chopped – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained – Adds moisture and a fresh, slightly tangy taste.
- 1 (10-ounce) can enchilada sauce – Brings a deep, bold, and slightly smoky flavor to the dish.
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained – Adds a mild heat and enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 (1.25-ounce) packet taco seasoning – A blend of spices that gives the dish its signature Mexican flair. (Use homemade taco seasoning for a fresher, preservative-free option.)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully and adds a sharp, creamy richness.
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese – Provides a smooth, mild, and slightly buttery contrast to the cheddar.
- 8 flour tortillas – Forms the perfect soft layers that soak up all the flavorful juices.
Optional Toppings for Extra Flavor:
- Sour cream – Adds a cool, creamy contrast to the spices.
- Chopped tomatoes – Enhances the freshness of each bite.
- Shredded lettuce – A refreshing, crisp topping.
- Sliced olives – Brings a briny, slightly salty kick.
- Jalapeños – Perfect for those who love extra heat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Drain excess grease to prevent the dish from being too oily.
2. Add the Vegetables and Seasonings
- Stir in the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the diced tomatoes, enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and taco seasoning.
- Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Layer the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the beef mixture on the bottom.
- Place two tortillas over the beef mixture.
- Add another layer of beef mixture, followed by tortillas.
- Repeat until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of tortillas on top.
- Sprinkle cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese generously over the final layer.
4. Bake to Perfection
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Add your favorite toppings and serve warm.
Pro Tips for the Best Taco Bake
✅ Make it Spicier: Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or extra hot sauce to the beef mixture for a fiery kick.
✅ Use Corn Tortillas: If you prefer a more traditional Mexican flavor, swap flour tortillas for corn tortillas.
✅ Make it Healthier: Use lean ground turkey, whole-wheat tortillas, and reduced-fat cheese for a lighter version.
✅ Meal Prep Friendly: Assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate. Simply bake when ready to serve, adding 5-10 extra minutes to the cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Easy Layered Taco Bake with these delicious sides for a complete meal:
- Mexican Rice – A fluffy and flavorful side dish.
- Refried Beans – Creamy and rich, a perfect complement.
- Guacamole & Salsa – Adds freshness and a pop of flavor.
- Corn on the Cob – A slightly sweet balance to the savory bake.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
This Easy Layered Taco Bake is the perfect combination of comfort food and bold flavors, all wrapped up in a simple-to-make casserole. It’s a family favorite that can be made ahead of time, customized to your taste, and served with a variety of toppings. Whether you're making it for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or meal prepping for the week, this cheesy, hearty, and flavorful dish is always a winner.
Give this delicious taco bake a try, and let us know how you like it!