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Easy Layered Taco Bake Recipe

4.7 from 134 reviews

This Easy Layered Taco Bake is a delicious and comforting meal featuring seasoned ground beef layered between soft flour tortillas and melted Mexican cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it combines classic taco flavors in a cheesy casserole that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Seasoning

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • Water as called for on back of seasoning packet (usually 3/4 cup)

Additional Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup salsa con queso
  • 3 (8-inch) flour tortillas (soft taco size)
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (divided use)

Instructions

  1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown and crumble 1 pound of ground beef. Cook until no longer pink, then drain excess grease carefully.
  2. Season the Meat: Add 1 packet of taco seasoning and the required amount of water (usually 3/4 cup) as directed on the seasoning packet. Stir to combine and simmer until the liquid has mostly evaporated and the meat is well seasoned.
  3. Mix in Salsa Con Queso: Turn off the heat and stir in 1/2 cup of salsa con queso, mixing thoroughly to blend the flavors into the taco meat filling.
  4. Prepare the Baking Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray an 8-inch round baking pan with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  5. Layer the First Tortilla: Place one of the 3 (8-inch) flour tortillas at the bottom of the prepared baking pan as the first layer.
  6. Add Taco Filling: Spread about one-third of the prepared ground beef taco mixture evenly over the tortilla layer.
  7. Sprinkle Cheese: Add one-third of the 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend evenly over the meat layer.
  8. Repeat Layers: Add another tortilla on top of the cheese, then repeat layering with one-third of the taco meat mixture followed by one-third of the cheese. Finish with the third tortilla and remaining meat and cheese layers as you go.
  9. Bake the Casserole: Place the layered taco bake in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and the edges are lightly golden.
  10. Serve: Remove from oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Slice into portions and serve with your favorite taco toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, or chopped cilantro.

Notes

  • Use salsa con queso for added creaminess and flavor, or substitute with your favorite salsa or cheese sauce.
  • Soft flour tortillas are best for layering as they become tender when baked.
  • You can add additional layers or double the recipe if serving a larger group.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • Optional toppings include diced tomatoes, sliced olives, jalapeños, or avocado slices.

Keywords: taco bake, layered casserole, ground beef taco recipe, easy Mexican dinner, baked tacos, cheesy taco bake