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If you're craving a hearty, flavorful meal that brings the fiesta to your dinner table, this Ortega Taco Casserole is your go-to. Packed with seasoned ground beef, zesty salsa, and layers of crushed tortilla chips, it's a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish combines all the best parts of a taco into a comforting casserole. Let's dive in!
The name of the recipe: Ortega Taco Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 cups cheddar or mexican blend shredded cheese
- 1 can drained and rinsed black beans
- 1 bag crushed tortilla chips
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add taco seasoning and salsa to the beef. Stir well and simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a baking dish, layer half of the crushed tortilla chips, then the beef mixture, black beans, and half of the shredded cheese.
- Repeat layers, ending with the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
What You Will Need
Read more: Taco Casserole Recipe
What you will need to make Ortega Taco Casserole
- Ground beef: Provides a hearty, savory base for the casserole, absorbing flavors from the seasoning and salsa beautifully.
- Taco seasoning: Adds a burst of Mexican-inspired spices, giving the dish its signature taco flavor.
- Salsa: Brings moisture and a tangy, slightly spicy kick, enhancing the overall taste.
- Shredded cheese: Melts into a gooey, delicious layer, binding the ingredients together and adding richness.
- Black beans: Adds protein, fiber, and a creamy texture, complementing the beef and spices.
- Tortilla chips: Provides a crunchy contrast to the soft layers, adding texture and a bit of saltiness.
Tools and Instruments Required
What tools/instruments will be needed to make Ortega Taco Casserole Recipe
- Skillet: Essential for browning ground beef and mixing in taco seasoning and salsa.
- Baking dish: Needed to layer and bake the casserole, ensuring even cooking.
- Oven: Required to bake the casserole until cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
- Spatula: Useful for stirring beef mixture and layering ingredients in the baking dish.
- Measuring cup: Helps measure salsa and cheese accurately for balanced flavors.
Ortega Taco Casserole Recipe
A delicious and easy taco casserole that's perfect for weeknight dinners.
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Ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 cups shredded cheese cheddar or Mexican blend
- 1 can black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 bag tortilla chips crushed
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add taco seasoning and salsa to the beef. Stir well and simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a baking dish, layer half of the crushed tortilla chips, then the beef mixture, black beans, and half of the shredded cheese.
- Repeat layers, ending with the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes:
Feel free to add your favorite taco toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or jalapeños.
Read more: Fiesta Taco Casserole Recipe
Nutrition value:
Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 5gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg
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Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Make Ahead and Freezing Instructions
Make Ahead Instructions
- Cook ground beef and mix with taco seasoning and salsa.
- Layer ingredients in baking dish as directed.
- Cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in fridge for up to 24 hours.
- When ready to bake, preheat oven and follow baking instructions.
Freezing Instructions
- Assemble casserole as directed but do not bake.
- Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
- Label with date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To bake, thaw in fridge overnight.
- Preheat oven and bake as directed, adding 10-15 minutes to baking time if still slightly frozen.
For a fun twist, try adding a layer of refried beans between the ground beef and black beans. It adds a creamy texture and extra flavor to the casserole.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ:
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a substitute.
What type of salsa should I use?
Any salsa you like, mild, medium, or hot.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely, bell peppers, corn, or onions are great additions.
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