Ground Beef Nacho Casserole
Ground Beef Nacho Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish with zesty taco seasoning, hearty ground beef, and gooey cheese, all layered with crispy tortilla chips, perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
For the filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Aromatic oil for sautéing.
- 2 cups onion, diced Fresh, crunchy onions for sweetness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Adds fragrance and depth.
- 1 pound lean ground beef (90/10 or 97/3) Juicy, protein-packed base.
- 1 ounce taco seasoning (1 packet) Transforms beef into a fiesta of flavor.
- 1.5 cups thick and chunky red salsa Provides moisture and zesty flavor.
- 3/4 cup taco sauce Enhances the flavor profile.
- 1 cup beef stock Rich broth ties flavors together.
- 15 ounces black beans, drained and rinsed Adds creamy texture and balance.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro Burst of freshness.
- 6 cups tortilla chips, coarsely crushed Creates a crispy contrast.
- 3 cups Cheddar cheese, grated Melty and rich, essential for indulgence.
- to taste black olives, sliced Adds briny notes.
- to taste green onions, sliced Provides crisp finish.
- to taste sour cream Adds cool creaminess.
Instructions
Preparation
- Spray a 13x9-inch baking pan with non-stick spray and set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until onions are translucent, about 4 minutes.
- Add lean ground beef and taco seasoning to the pan, stirring until beef is no longer pink, about 6 minutes.
- Stir in red salsa, taco sauce, and beef stock, cooking for 3 minutes until the mixture slightly thickens.
- Gently stir in black beans and chopped cilantro.
- Spread 2 cups of tortilla chips at the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Top with half of the beef mixture, followed by another layer of chips and then sprinkle with 1.5 cups of grated cheese.
- Add the remaining beef mixture on top, finishing with the remaining chips and cheese.
Baking
- Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until bubbling around the edges.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Allow the casserole to stand for 5 minutes before garnishing with extra cilantro.
Notes
For a flavor boost, add diced green chilies or jalapeños. Mix cheese types for depth of flavor. Substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, or lentils for variations.