A Fiesta in Every Bite: Taco Pie Casserole Recipe
Are you ready to bring the vibrant flavors of a Mexican fiesta to your dining table? Our Taco Pie Casserole recipe is the perfect dish for you! With its hearty layers of ground beef, refried beans, cheese, and a plethora of flavorful ingredients, this casserole is guaranteed to please everyone at your next family dinner or gathering. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to make this delectable dish.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- ½ cup taco seasoning
- 1 ½ cup water
- 28 ounce can refried beans
- 10 ounce can Rotel®
- 7 ounce can diced green chilies
- 15 ounce can whole kernel corn, drained
- 15 corn tortillas, warmed up in the microwave for about 15 seconds
- 6 cups cheese, grated (Cheddar or Pepper Jack)
Optional for Serving:
- Lettuce
- Tomatoes
- Cilantro
- Green onions
- Sour cream
Directions
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously spray a 13 x 9 baking dish with non-stick spray. Set aside.
- Cook the Meat: In a large frying pan, brown the ground beef with the onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Drain any excess grease and return the meat back to the pan. Sprinkle taco seasoning over the meat, add water, stir well, bring to a boil, and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Beans and Layers: While the meat simmers, heat the refried beans in a medium saucepan. Spread a thin layer of beans on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Place 5 tortillas on top of the beans, cutting 3 in half for the edges and placing two whole in the center.
- Building the Casserole: Cover tortillas with a layer of beans. Then, add ⅓ of the meat mixture, ⅓ green chilies, a couple of spoons of Rotel, ⅓ of the corn, and ⅓ of the grated cheese. Repeat these layers 2 more times, ending with cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 60 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese has melted.
Tips for the Perfect Taco Pie Casserole
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different types of cheese for varying flavors. A mix of Cheddar and Pepper Jack offers a nice balance of creaminess and spice.
- Serving: Enhance your Taco Pie Casserole by serving it with fresh toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, cilantro, and green onions. A dollop of sour cream adds a cooling contrast to the spicy flavors.
- Tortilla Tip: Warming the tortillas makes them more pliable and easier to work with. It prevents them from breaking when assembling the casserole.
Conclusion
This Taco Pie Casserole recipe is a surefire way to add some excitement to your dinner routine. It’s a crowd-pleaser that combines the convenience of a casserole with the bold flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is bound to become a favorite. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready for a fiesta in every bite!
Remember, the key to a great casserole is in the layering. Each layer adds its unique flavor and texture, making every bite a delightful experience. Enjoy crafting this delicious masterpiece and watch it disappear before your eyes!