Beef and Bean Taco Casserole with Crispy Tortilla Chips

Prep: 15 minCook: 30 min6 servingsmediumMexican
Beef and Bean Taco Casserole with Crispy Tortilla Chips

This hearty casserole combines seasoned ground beef and black beans with layers of crushed tortilla chips and melted cheese for a satisfying Mexican-inspired dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd, this one-dish meal delivers all the flavors of tacos in an easy-to-serve format. The crispy chip layers add delightful texture while the salsa keeps everything moist and flavorful. Customize with your favorite toppings like sour cream, avocado, or fresh cilantro.

Nut-Free

Ingredients

6 servings
  • 1 lb ground beef
    ground turkey1:1healthier

    Works well but slightly less flavor

    Full guide →
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
    pinto beans1:1preference

    Same texture and protein

    Full guide →
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 cup salsa
    diced tomatoes1:1milder

    Less spicy but still flavorful

    Full guide →
  • 2 cups shredded cheese
    Mexican cheese blend1:1authentic

    Better melt and flavor

    Full guide →
  • 1 bag tortilla chips, crushed

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 350°F

  2. 2

    Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned

  3. 3

    Drain excess fat from beef

  4. 4

    Add taco seasoning and water according to package instructions

  5. 5

    Stir in black beans and salsa

  6. 6

    Layer half of the crushed tortilla chips in a baking dish

  7. 7

    Top with beef mixture

  8. 8

    Sprinkle with half of the cheese

  9. 9

    Repeat layers

  10. 10

    Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly

  11. 11

    Serve hot garnished with favorite taco toppings

Tips

Tip 1

Crush tortilla chips in the bag before opening to avoid mess and get more even pieces

Tip 2

Let casserole rest 5 minutes after baking for easier serving and to prevent burns

Tip 3

Drain beans thoroughly to prevent watery casserole

Good to Know

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days in covered container

Make Ahead

Can assemble up to 1 day ahead and refrigerate before baking

Serve With

Serve hot directly from baking dish with taco toppings

See pairing guide →

Common Mistakes

Watch

Drain beef fat thoroughly to avoid greasy casserole

Watch

Don't skip rinsing beans to prevent excess sodium and starch

Substitutions

ground beef→
ground turkey1:1healthier

Works well but slightly less flavor

Full guide →
black beans→
pinto beans1:1preference

Same texture and protein

Full guide →
salsa→
diced tomatoes1:1milder

Less spicy but still flavorful

Full guide →
shredded cheese→
Mexican cheese blend1:1authentic

Better melt and flavor

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole completely and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5-10 minutes to cooking time if baking from cold.

What toppings work best with this casserole?

Sour cream, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and lime wedges all complement the flavors perfectly.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, freeze portions up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator and reheat in oven at 350°F until heated through.