Description
A light and flavorful taco casserole that combines lean ground beef or chicken with black beans, salsa, and melted low-fat cheese over crispy tortilla chips. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner, delivering classic taco flavors in a comforting baked casserole form.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 24 tortilla chips
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound lean ground beef OR ground chicken
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup chunky salsa
- 1 cup shredded low-fat cheddar cheese or mozzarella
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Sauté Aromatics and Cook Meat: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until softened. Then add minced garlic, lean ground beef or ground chicken, and taco seasoning. Cook, stirring and crumbling the meat, until browned and cooked through.
- Add Beans and Salsa: Stir in the drained and rinsed black beans along with the chunky salsa into the cooked meat mixture. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes or until everything is heated through and well combined.
- Prepare Casserole Base: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread the tortilla chips evenly on the bottom. Gently press them down to break into bite-sized pieces, creating a sturdy base for your casserole.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the meat and bean mixture evenly over the tortilla chips. Sprinkle the shredded low-fat cheddar cheese or mozzarella cheese evenly on top. Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it stand for 5 minutes to set. Slice and serve hot, topped with your favorite additional toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or fresh cilantro if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute ground chicken for beef to reduce fat content and calories.
- Low-sodium taco seasoning helps control sodium intake without sacrificing flavor.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the meat and increase beans or add sautéed vegetables.
- Top the casserole with avocado, sliced jalapeños, or Greek yogurt for added freshness.
- Use gluten-free tortilla chips if you require a gluten-free meal.
