Description
This Easy Layered Taco Bake is a delicious and convenience-packed dish that combines seasoned ground beef, cheesy layers, and flavorful salsa con queso all baked to perfection. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it delivers classic taco flavors with minimal effort and all the cheesy goodness everyone loves.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Meat and Seasoning
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 3/4 cup water (or as called for on seasoning packet)
Sauce and Toppings
- 1/2 cup salsa con queso
Layer and Garnish
- 3 (8-inch) flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (divided)
Instructions
- Brown and cook the beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and crumbly. Drain excess grease from the skillet.
- Add seasoning and water: Stir in the taco seasoning packet and the specified amount of water (usually 3/4 cup). Cook according to the seasoning packet’s instructions until the mixture is thickened and well combined.
- Mix in salsa con queso: Off the heat, stir in the 1/2 cup salsa con queso until thoroughly combined. Set aside.
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray an 8-inch round baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.
- Layer the ingredients: Place one flour tortilla at the bottom of the pan. Spread one-third of the beef mixture evenly over the tortilla. Sprinkle one-third of the shredded cheese over the beef layer. Repeat the layers: tortilla, beef, cheese, until all ingredients are used, ending with a cheese layer on top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and edges are slightly golden brown.
- Serve: Let the taco bake cool for a couple of minutes. Slice and serve warm. Top with your favorite toppings if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- For an extra kick, add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce on top before serving.
- Don’t skip the spray on the baking pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- This dish is versatile; you can layer in beans, olives, or sour cream for added flavor.
- Serve with a side salad or Mexican rice for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 950 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
