This Southwest Spicy Taco Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic taco night. It's layered with bold flavors and textures, making it a perfect dish for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. With just the right amount of spice and comfort, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your home.
First, you'll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it nice and hot for baking. While that's heating up, grab a large skillet and set it over medium heat. Toss in the ground beef and diced onion. Cook them together, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onion turns translucent — this usually takes around 6-8 minutes. Once done, drain any excess fat to keep things from getting greasy.
Next, stir the taco seasoning mix into the beef, followed by the diced tomatoes with green chilies and tomato sauce. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. This gives the flavors time to meld together nicely. After that, add the black beans to the skillet. Give it all a good stir to ensure everything's mixed well.
Now, it's time to layer the casserole. In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of your crushed tortilla chips on the bottom. Pour the beef mixture over these chips, spreading it evenly. Then, sprinkle the remaining chips on top, followed by a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese.
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. You'll know it's done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving. Finish each serving with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for that final touch.
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside Spanish rice or refried beans. A squeeze of lime over the top just before serving can add a refreshing zing.
Ground beef forms the hearty base of this casserole, providing rich flavor and protein. Diced onion adds a mild sweetness and depth to the beef mixture. The taco seasoning mix is the secret to an authentic taco taste, packing in spices like cumin, chili, and garlic. Diced tomatoes with green chilies bring a zesty kick that complements the beef beautifully. Tomato sauce adds moisture and a touch of acidity to balance the spices. Black beans introduce a creamy texture and additional protein, making the dish more filling. Corn tortilla chips provide a crunchy layer that contrasts with the softness of the beef and beans. Shredded cheddar cheese melts into a gooey, golden topping that ties all the flavors together. Sour cream offers a cooling, tangy finish, and fresh cilantro gives a fresh, herby note to brighten each bite.
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