Cheesy Taco Bake

Why Make This Recipe

Cheesy Taco Bake is a delicious and easy meal perfect for any occasion. It combines the flavors of tacos with the comfort of a cheesy bake. The dish is simple to prepare and can feed a crowd, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends. With layers of tortilla chips, seasoned beef, and gooey cheese, this recipe is sure to please everyone’s taste buds.

How to Make Cheesy Taco Bake

Ingredients:

• 1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
• Kosher salt
• 1 1/2 lb. ground beef
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (14.5-oz.) can fire-roasted tomatoes
• 3/4 cup water
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tsp. chili powder
• 2 tsp. ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp. cayenne
• 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro, plus more for serving
• 1 (11- to 12-oz.) bag tortilla chips (preferably restaurant-style)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar
• 2 cups shredded pepper Jack

Directions:

1. Arrange a rack in the center of the oven and preheat it to 350 degrees.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and season with a bit of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened, about 7 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring, until it is browned, about 7 minutes. If desired, drain the fat.
4. Add the minced garlic, fire-roasted tomatoes, water, sour cream, chili powder, ground cumin, and cayenne. Stir until everything is combined. Cook, stirring, until the mixture is slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the chopped cilantro.
6. In a 13 x 9 baking dish, spread a layer of tortilla chips evenly. Top with half of the ground beef mixture, half of the shredded cheddar, and half of the shredded pepper Jack. Make a second layer with the remaining beef mixture and cheeses. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro on top.
7. Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted and the tortilla chips are softened, about 20 minutes. Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

How to Serve Cheesy Taco Bake

Cheesy Taco Bake is best served warm. You can top each serving with extra cilantro, sour cream, or diced avocados for additional flavor. This dish pairs well with a side of fresh salsa or a simple green salad.

How to Store Cheesy Taco Bake

To store leftovers, allow the Cheesy Taco Bake to cool completely. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it if needed; just make sure to use a freezer-safe container.

Tips to Make Cheesy Taco Bake

• You can add additional toppings like diced jalapeños, black olives, or corn for extra flavor.
• If you like it spicier, try adding more cayenne or jalapeños to the beef mixture.
• Make sure to use restaurant-style tortilla chips for better texture and crunch.

Variation

For a vegetarian option, you can replace the ground beef with black beans or lentils. You can also add more vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to the dish.

FAQs

1. Can I make Cheesy Taco Bake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and assemble the bake when you are ready to cook it.

2. Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! You can mix and match your favorite cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even feta for a unique flavor.

3. How do I reheat leftovers?
You can reheat the Cheesy Taco Bake in the oven at 350 degrees for about 15-20 minutes, or you can heat individual portions in the microwave for a quick option.