Layered Taco Bake

This Easy Layered Taco Bake is the perfect go-to meal for a busy weeknight. With layers of flavorful ground beef, salsa con queso, melted cheese, and soft tortillas, this dish comes together quickly and is always a hit with the whole family. Baked to perfection, it’s a hearty and satisfying dinner that will make everyone feel like they’re getting a special treat with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Taco Bake is a quick and easy version of taco night, combining all the delicious flavors of tacos into a cheesy, comforting casserole. The taco meat is flavorful and perfectly complemented by the salsa con queso, while the tortillas create a soft, tender base. The melty Mexican cheese blend ties it all together for a dish that’s sure to please everyone. Plus, it’s customizable with your favorite taco toppings!

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning
Water (as called for on the back of the seasoning packet, usually ¾ cup)
½ cup salsa con queso
3 (8-inch) flour tortillas (soft taco size)
2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (divided use)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Taco Meat:

In a skillet, brown and crumble the ground beef. Drain any excess grease.
Add the taco seasoning and water (usually ¾ cup, as directed on the packet). Follow the instructions on the seasoning packet.
Once the taco meat is ready, turn off the heat and stir in the salsa con queso until well combined.

2. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray an 8-inch round baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.

3. Assemble the Taco Bake:

Layer the bottom of the baking pan with one of the tortillas.
Add about ⅓ of the taco meat mixture over the tortilla.
Sprinkle with ⅓ of the shredded Mexican cheese blend.
Repeat with another tortilla, followed by more taco meat, and then more cheese. Add the final tortilla on top, followed by the remaining taco mixture and cheese.

4. Bake:

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges are slightly golden brown.

5. Serve:

Let the Taco Bake cool for a couple of minutes. Slice and serve with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, lettuce, or salsa.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Kcal: 400 kcal per serving

Variations

• Add Beans: Add black beans or refried beans for a heartier dish. Layer them in between the tortillas for extra texture and flavor.

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with crumbled tofu or a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian version of this Taco Bake.

• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the taco meat mixture for an extra spicy flavor.

• Extra Veggies: Add some sautéed onions, bell peppers, or corn to the taco meat mixture for extra veggies and flavor.

• Cheese Swap: Use a combination of cheddar, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack cheese for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Taco Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

• Reheating: Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Yes, you can use any kind of cheese you like. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack would all work great.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this Taco Bake a day ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

3. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?

Yes, corn tortillas can be used in place of flour tortillas. They will give the dish a slightly different texture and flavor, but it’s just as tasty.

4. Can I make this with ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well in this recipe as a leaner alternative to ground beef.

5. Can I add more layers to the Taco Bake?

Absolutely! You can add more layers of tortillas and taco filling to create a thicker, heartier dish. Just make sure your baking pan is large enough to accommodate extra layers.

6. How do I prevent the tortillas from getting soggy?

Be sure to layer the tortillas in a single, even layer without overlapping them. Also, be sure to drain any excess liquid from the taco meat before adding it to the layers.

7. Can I use a different type of salsa instead of salsa con queso?

Yes, you can substitute salsa con queso with regular salsa, though it won’t give the same creamy texture. Adding some sour cream or cheese to the salsa can help achieve a similar consistency.

8. How can I make this dish spicier?

For a spicy twist, add some sliced jalapeños, hot sauce, or chili flakes to the taco meat mixture.

9. Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, you can easily double the ingredients and bake in a larger baking pan. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed and check for doneness.

10. Can I serve this with toppings?

Absolutely! Top with sour cream, guacamole, fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or shredded lettuce for extra flavor and freshness.

Conclusion

This Easy Layered Taco Bake is the perfect weeknight meal, combining the flavors of tacos in a cheesy, comforting casserole. It’s quick to assemble, flavorful, and satisfying—making it ideal for busy nights when you need something hearty and delicious. Customize it to your liking with toppings or extra ingredients, and enjoy a family-friendly dinner that everyone will love!

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