Why You’ll Love Taco Casserole Recipe

This casserole transforms classic taco flavors into a fun, comforting casserole that’s simple to assemble and packed with bold taste. It’s hearty, family‑friendly, and pairs perfectly with your favorite taco toppings for a customizable meal everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 pound lean ground beef (or ground turkey or chicken)
1 cup yellow onion, diced
1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 package taco seasoning
1 15‑ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 15‑ounce can corn, drained
1 10‑ounce can Rotel diced tomatoes with peppers
2 cups shredded cheese (half cheddar, half Monterey Jack recommended), divided
3 cups Doritos, lightly crushed
Topping suggestions: lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, green onions

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until about half‑browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic, cooking until the beef is fully browned and vegetables are softened.
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the meat mixture and stir well, cooking for 1–2 minutes.
Stir in the black beans, corn, and Rotel tomatoes, then mix in half of the shredded cheese.
Spread about 2 cups of crushed Doritos in the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish.
Spoon the meat mixture evenly over the Doritos.
Top with the remaining Doritos and the remaining cheese.
Bake for about 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the chips are lightly toasted.
Serve with your favorite taco toppings.

Servings and timing

Serves: 6
Prep time: about 5 minutes
Cook time: about 45 minutes
Total time: about 50 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños, spicy taco seasoning, or hot Rotel tomatoes for extra heat.
Low-Carb Version: Replace the Doritos with a layer of sautéed zucchini or cauliflower rice.
Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based ground meat and extra beans and veggies.
Cheesy Upgrade: Mix cream cheese or a layer of queso into the filling for a creamier texture.
Breakfast Style: Add scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage for a morning twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover taco casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot. Because the Doritos soften after storage, you can top reheated portions with fresh crushed chips for added crunch.

FAQs

How can I make this taco casserole healthier?

Use lean ground turkey or chicken, swap in low‑fat cheese, and add extra vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added nutrition.

Can I use tortilla chips instead of Doritos?

Yes — plain tortilla chips work well in place of Doritos if you prefer a less seasoned chip or want to reduce sodium.

Is this casserole gluten‑free?

As long as your taco seasoning and Doritos (or chosen chips) are certified gluten‑free, this casserole can be made gluten‑free.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole without baking, cover, and refrigerate it for up to one day before baking.

Can I freeze taco casserole?

You can freeze the baked casserole in an airtight container for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What toppings go well with this dish?

Popular toppings include shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, sliced green onions, and avocado.

Can I substitute beans or leave them out?

Yes — you can swap black beans for pinto beans, kidney beans, or leave them out if you prefer.

How do I make it spicier?

Add extra diced jalapeños, use spicy Rotel tomatoes, or sprinkle cayenne pepper into the meat mixture.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Substitute the ground meat with plant‑based crumbles and load up on beans and veggies for a vegetarian version.

What size baking dish should I use?

A standard 9×13‑inch baking dish works best for even cooking and layering.

Conclusion

This Taco Casserole brings all your favorite taco flavors together in an easy one‑dish meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd. With hearty seasoned meat, crunchy chips, melty cheese, and customizable toppings, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Taco Casserole