Ingredients
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1 lb (450g) ground beef (Halal-certified)
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1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
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1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
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1 packet taco seasoning (Halal-certified or homemade)
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½ cup water
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8–10 small flour tortillas (cut into quarters)
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
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1 small onion, diced
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1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
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1 cup frozen corn kernels (optional)
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1 tsp cumin
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1 tsp chili powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 tbsp olive oil
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½ cup sour cream (for topping, optional)
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¼ cup chopped cilantro (for garnish, optional)
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Salsa for serving (optional)
Ingredient Highlights
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Ground Beef: The ground beef is the star of this casserole, providing the hearty base and savory flavor. You can substitute ground chicken or turkey if preferred.
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Taco Seasoning: The taco seasoning infuses the beef with classic taco flavors, such as cumin, chili powder, garlic, and onion, giving the casserole its bold, zesty taste.
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Cheese: A combination of cheddar and Mexican blend cheese creates the perfect melty, gooey topping for the casserole.
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Tortillas: The tortillas form the foundation of the casserole, adding a soft, slightly crispy texture and a classic taco element.
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Black Beans: Black beans not only add protein and fiber to the dish but also enhance the taco flavor with their rich, earthy taste.
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Sour Cream and Salsa: Topping the casserole with sour cream and salsa adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish, creating the perfect finishing touch.
Instructions
Prepare the Ground Beef:
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Cook the Ground Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. This should take about 7-10 minutes.
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Add the Veggies: Add the diced onion, bell pepper (if using), and corn (if using) to the skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
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Season the Meat: Stir in the taco seasoning, cumin, chili powder, and salt and pepper. Pour in ½ cup of water and stir until the seasoning is well distributed. Allow the mixture to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
Assemble the Casserole:
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
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Layer the Tortillas: Arrange the quartered tortillas at the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create the first layer. This acts as the base of the casserole.
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Add the Beef Mixture: Spoon half of the ground beef mixture over the tortillas, spreading it evenly.
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Layer the Beans and Tomatoes: Spread the black beans and drained diced tomatoes evenly over the beef mixture.
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Add Cheese: Sprinkle ½ cup of cheddar cheese and ½ cup of the Mexican blend cheese over the layers.
Bake the Casserole:
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Add More Layers: Repeat the process, layering more tortillas, the remaining beef mixture, and then the rest of the beans and tomatoes. Top with the remaining cheese.
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Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
Serve and Garnish:
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Cool and Slice: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking to allow it to set. Then, cut it into squares.
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Top and Serve: Serve the casserole topped with sour cream, fresh cilantro, and salsa if desired. Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 20minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 25g