An Easy Weeknight Hero
If your weeknights are anything like mine—busy, hungry, and in need of something comforting fast—then this One-Pan Cheesy Taco Casserole is about to become your new go-to. It’s got all the flavor of tacos but with way less mess, thanks to one skillet and layers of savory seasoned meat, beans, corn, melty cheese, and crushed tortilla chips.
What I love most about this recipe is that it’s so adaptable. You can load it up with your family’s favorite toppings, make it spicy or mild, and it reheats like a dream. It’s that easy, crowd-pleasing dinner that makes everyone happy—including the cook!
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles all work great.
Q: Is it spicy?
Not unless you want it to be. You can keep it mild or kick it up with hot sauce, jalapeños, or a spicier taco seasoning.
Q: Do the tortilla chips get soggy?
Some will soften (in a good way!), but for crunch, top it with extra chips just before serving.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it ahead and refrigerate, then just bake when you’re ready. You can also reheat leftovers easily.
Q: What toppings go well with this casserole?
Sour cream, avocado, fresh cilantro, chopped tomatoes, pickled jalapeños, or shredded lettuce are all fantastic!
What You Need to Make One-Pan Cheesy Taco Casserole
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained & rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 2 cups crushed tortilla chips
- Optional toppings: sour cream, avocado, jalapeños, green onions, cilantro
How to Make One-Pan Cheesy Taco Casserole
Step 1: Brown the Meat
In a large oven-safe skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Season and Simmer
Stir in the taco seasoning, Rotel, black beans, corn, and salsa. Simmer for 5 minutes so everything heats through and combines.
Step 3: Layer the Cheese and Chips
Turn off the heat. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese. Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips evenly over the top, then add the remaining 1 cup of cheese.
Step 4: Bake and Finish
Place skillet in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melty and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
Top with your favorite taco toppings and dig in while it’s hot!
Tips for the Best Taco Casserole
✔ Use a cast-iron or oven-safe skillet so you can go from stove to oven in one pan.
✔ Add a layer of refried beans or rice if you want to stretch it further.
✔ Craving crunch? Top with fresh tortilla chips after baking.
✔ Make it creamy by stirring in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese before baking.
✔ Let it rest for 5 minutes after baking to make it easier to slice and serve.
Reader Reviews
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Emma L. – “So easy and SO cheesy! This is officially on our weekly meal rotation.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 James K. – “Used ground turkey and added jalapeños—amazing flavor!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Samantha W. – “Loved that I could make it all in one pan. The kids devoured it.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 Lucas R. – “Great recipe! I topped it with guac and sour cream. Will make again.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Jessica T. – “Perfect weeknight dinner! It reheated beautifully the next day, too.”
Printable Recipe
One-Pan Cheesy Taco Casserole
This One-Pan Cheesy Taco Casserole is packed with seasoned beef, beans, corn, salsa, cheese, and crunchy tortilla chips—the ultimate easy weeknight meal!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained & rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 2 cups crushed tortilla chips
- Optional toppings: sour cream, avocado, jalapeños, green onions, cilantro
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Meat
In a large oven-safe skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Season and Simmer
Stir in the taco seasoning, Rotel, black beans, corn, and salsa. Simmer for 5 minutes so everything heats through and combines.
Step 3: Layer the Cheese and Chips
Turn off the heat. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese. Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips evenly over the top, then add the remaining 1 cup of cheese.
Step 4: Bake and Finish
Place skillet in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melty and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
Top with your favorite taco toppings and dig in while it’s hot!
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