Kate Walton
Get ready for a comfort food favorite that blends Tex-Mex flavors with the heartiness of a classic casserole. This Loaded Taco Beef Casserole is bold, cheesy, and layered with deliciousness in every bite. It’s a weeknight lifesaver that transforms pantry staples into something truly craveable.
Perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or meal prepping for the week, this dish stacks spiced ground beef, gooey cheese, creamy sour cream, and fresh toppings like lettuce and tomatoes. Whether you’re serving it at a potluck or enjoying a quiet family dinner, it’s bound to be a repeat request.
What Kind of Puff Pastry Should I Use?
Actually, this dish skips the puff pastry altogether. Instead of a pastry base, the casserole uses layers of seasoned beef and melted cheese to build its structure. If you want a starchy base, a layer of crushed tortilla chips or even cooked rice can be added at the bottom for more substance.
Ingredients for the Loaded Taco Beef Casserole
- Ground Beef: The main protein. It forms the hearty base of the casserole and absorbs the taco spices beautifully.
- Taco Seasoning: Gives the dish that signature bold flavor. Use a packet or make your own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic.
- Onion: Adds depth and a mild sweetness to the beef layer.
- Cheddar Cheese: Melts to gooey perfection and brings a rich, sharp bite.
- Sour Cream: Provides a cooling contrast to the spiced beef and acts as a creamy middle layer.
- Tomatoes: Fresh diced tomatoes add juiciness and a bright, acidic pop.
- Lettuce: For a crisp, fresh top layer that balances the richness.
- Cilantro: Optional, but brings freshness and color.
- Tortilla Chips (optional): Crushed and layered for added crunch and body.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing the beef and onions.
How To Make the Loaded Taco Beef Casserole
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
Step 2: Season the Meat
Stir in the taco seasoning and a splash of water. Let it simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased baking dish, spread a layer of crushed tortilla chips (if using) followed by the beef mixture. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Add the Fresh Toppings
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Spread a layer of sour cream over the melted cheese, then top with chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, and cilantro if desired.
Serving and Storing Loaded Taco Beef Casserole
Serve this casserole hot, straight from the oven, garnished with extra sour cream or hot sauce if desired. It’s perfect on its own or scooped up with tortilla chips like a dip.
For storage, let the casserole cool completely. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a 350°F oven until heated through. You can freeze it too—just skip the fresh toppings until ready to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or even chicken makes a lighter version that still packs great flavor.
Is this casserole spicy?
It depends on your taco seasoning. If you like heat, add chopped jalapeños or use a spicy blend.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Absolutely. Assemble the layers (except for the fresh toppings) and refrigerate up to 24 hours ahead. Bake when ready to serve.
What other toppings go well with this dish?
Avocado, green onions, pickled jalapeños, or even a drizzle of hot sauce work beautifully.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes. Swap the ground meat with black beans, corn, and sautéed peppers for a meatless twist.
Want More Dinner Ideas with a Twist?
If you love this loaded taco beef casserole, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:
- Creamy Chicken Enchilada Bake for a cheesy, saucy classic.
- Cheesy Baked Ziti with Spinach for a comforting pasta night.
- BBQ Pulled Pork Potato Casserole if you’re craving smoky and hearty.
- Tex-Mex Stuffed Peppers for a low-carb twist on taco flavors.
- Spicy Chicken Tortilla Casserole with bold, layered heat.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go for extra heat or keep it mild? Did you sneak in any other toppings?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.
Loaded Taco Beef Casserole
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This Loaded Taco Beef Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish for taco lovers. It layers seasoned ground beef with cheddar cheese, creamy sour cream, and fresh toppings like lettuce and tomatoes. Ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it delivers big flavor with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade mix)
1 small onion, diced
1 tbsp olive oil
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup sour cream
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 cup shredded lettuce
2 tbsp chopped cilantro (optional)
1 cup crushed tortilla chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 3 minutes.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in taco seasoning with a splash of water. Simmer briefly.
- Layer crushed tortilla chips (if using) in the baking dish, then spread the beef mixture over.
- Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top and bake for 15-20 minutes until bubbly.
- Remove from oven. Spread sour cream over the top.
- Add diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and chopped cilantro.
- Serve hot with extra toppings or tortilla chips.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
