Taco Bell

Craving those familiar Taco Bell flavors but want to enjoy them in a cozy, homemade way? This Taco Bell-Style Casserole is your perfect solution. Packed with seasoned beef, refried beans, and ooey-gooey cheese, all layered between crispy tortillas and topped with fresh tomatoes and green onions, it’s like your favorite Taco Bell dish but baked to perfection.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Comfort Food: All the familiar flavors of Taco Bell but in a warm, cheesy, baked casserole.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level or toppings to suit your preferences.
• Perfect for Family Dinners: Feeds a crowd and is great for gatherings, game nights, or a satisfying weeknight meal.

Ingredients for Taco Bell-Style Casserole

• 1.5 lb ground beef: The main protein, seasoned with classic Taco Bell flavors.
• 1 Taco Bell seasoning packet: This shortcut gives you all the spices you need for that iconic flavor.
• 1 large can refried beans: Adds a creamy layer that pairs perfectly with the seasoned beef.
• 1 large can red enchilada sauce: For saucy, delicious layers of flavor.
• 10 corn flour mix tortillas: Lightly fried to add a crispy texture and act as the base and top of the casserole.
• 1 large tomato, diced: Adds freshness and brightness to balance the richness of the dish.
• 1/4 medium onion, diced: Provides that essential savory crunch.
• 3+ cups shredded cheese: Use a combination of cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend for gooey goodness.
• Chopped green onion: A fresh garnish that adds color and a mild, zesty kick.

How to Make Taco Bell-Style Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, brown 1.5 lbs of ground beef over medium heat. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat and return the beef to the pan. Add 1 Taco Bell seasoning packet and follow the packet instructions by adding 1/2 to 3/4 cup of water. Simmer until most of the liquid is absorbed and the beef is well-seasoned. Set aside.

Step 2: Heat the Beans

While the beef is simmering, heat 1 large can of refried beans in a small pot over low heat or in the microwave. Stir occasionally to keep the beans smooth and easy to spread.

Step 3: Fry the Tortillas

In a separate skillet, heat a small amount of vegetable oil over medium heat. Fry each of the 10 tortillas individually until they’re lightly golden and crispy. Drain them on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

• Layer 1: Lay half of the fried tortillas across the bottom of the dish. They can overlap slightly.
• Layer 2: Spread the warmed refried beans evenly over the tortillas.
• Layer 3: Spoon the seasoned ground beef across the top of the beans.
• Layer 4: Pour half of the enchilada sauce evenly over the meat layer.
• Layer 5: Add another layer of fried tortillas on top.
• Layer 6: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the tortillas.

Step 5: Top It Off

Sprinkle diced tomatoes and diced onions across the top. Then, spread 3+ cups of shredded cheese over everything. You can add the tomatoes and onions under or on top of the cheese, depending on your preference.

Step 6: Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the sides are bubbling. Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh garnish.

Step 7: Let It Rest

Allow the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set, making it easier to cut and serve.

Pro Tips for Success

• Customize the Protein: You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top for an extra kick.
• Fry Tortillas Carefully: Be sure to fry the tortillas just until golden; over-frying can make them too crispy to layer well.
• Meal Prep: This casserole is perfect for meal prepping. Just store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat for easy meals throughout the week.

Variations to Try

• Veggie Casserole: Swap the meat for a medley of sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
• Taco Bell Breakfast Casserole: Use scrambled eggs, sausage, and hash browns instead of ground beef for a breakfast twist.
• Cheesy Doritos Topping: For a crunchy top layer, crush some nacho cheese-flavored Doritos and sprinkle them over the cheese before baking.

Storing and Reheating

• Storing: Cover the casserole with foil or plastic wrap and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm up individual servings in the microwave or reheat the whole casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through.

Final Thoughts

This Taco Bell-Style Casserole delivers all the bold flavors you crave in an easy-to-make, comforting dish. It’s perfect for Taco Tuesday or any night when you want to mix things up. With layers of seasoned beef, beans, and crispy tortillas, each bite is a fiesta of flavors. Garnish with fresh green onions, serve warm, and watch it disappear!