Cheesy Taco Casserole

Casseroles have long been cherished as the ultimate comfort food, embodying warmth, heartiness, and a sense of home. These one-dish wonders are perfect for busy families and gatherings, allowing for effortless meal preparation and cleanup. The Cheesy Taco Casserole Delight takes the best elements of classic tacos and combines them with the comforting familiarity of pasta, creating a dish that is not only delicious but also satisfying. This recipe is an ideal solution for weeknight dinners or potluck parties, offering a fusion of flavors that pleases both kids and adults alike.

Indulge in the heartwarming Cheesy Taco Casserole Delight, a flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. This one-pan meal blends classic taco flavors with pasta, making it a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. Simple to prepare and customizable to fit dietary needs, it features ground meat, beans, vibrant veggies, and gooey cheese. Gather your loved ones around this comforting dish that brings everyone together for a delicious shared experience.

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Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning)

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)

1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies

1 cup salsa

8 oz elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

1/2 cup sour cream

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)

Sliced jalapeños (for garnish, optional)

Tortilla chips (for topping)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef (or turkey) and diced onion. Cook until the meat is browned and the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Add Seasoning: Stir in the minced garlic, taco seasoning, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes (with juices), and salsa. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Combine: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat and veggie mixture. Gently fold in the sour cream and half of each cheese (cheddar and Monterey Jack) until well incorporated.

Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour the pasta mixture into the dish and spread it evenly.

Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and add a layer of crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch.

Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the sides are slightly crispy.

Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and let it sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and sliced jalapeños, if desired. Scoop onto plates and enjoy your cheesy taco casserole!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6-8