If you’re craving a hearty, cheesy, and utterly comforting dish that brings the best flavors of Tex-Mex right into your kitchen, this Beef Nacho Casserole Recipe is going to be your new go-to. Picture layers of seasoned ground beef mingling with black beans and diced tomatoes with a perfect crunch from tortilla chips, all smothered in melted cheddar cheese and topped with cool, creamy sour cream and fresh garnishes. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s just as great for weeknight dinners as it is for casual get-togethers, and once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, accessible, and each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the flavors, textures, and vibrant colors of this Beef Nacho Casserole Recipe. From the savory seasoned beef to the crisp tortilla chips and creamy finishing touches, every element is essential for that perfect balance.
- 1 pound ground beef: The rich, meaty base that holds all the flavors together.
- 1 small onion (diced): Adds sweetness and depth when softened in the pan.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): A punch of aromatic flavor that makes the seasoning pop.
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix: The secret blend that turns plain beef into fiesta-worthy filling.
- 1/2 cup water: Helps the seasoning distribute evenly and keep the mixture moist.
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies (drained): Adds a subtle tang and gentle heat.
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans (rinsed and drained): Boosts protein and adds creaminess to the casserole.
- 2 cups crushed tortilla chips: Provides the signature crunch and texture contrast.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese: Melts beautifully to create that irresistible gooey layer.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Brings cool creaminess that balances the spices.
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional): Adds a briny bite and pretty black speckles on top.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions: Freshness and color to brighten every bite.
- Optional toppings (jalapeños, chopped tomatoes, avocado, cilantro): Customize to your taste for even more flavor and visual appeal.
How to Make Beef Nacho Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onions
Start by warming a large skillet over medium heat and cooking the ground beef together with the diced onion. Let the beef brown thoroughly and the onions soften, which usually takes around 5 to 7 minutes. Adding the garlic in the last minute of cooking really infuses the dish with that irresistible aroma. Once everything is cooked through, be sure to drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too oily.
Step 2: Add Seasoning and Simmer
Next, stir in your taco seasoning and pour in the water, stirring well so every bit of beef is coated with flavor. Let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens up nicely. This will intensify the seasoning and help meld all the spices together for that authentic taste you’re craving.
Step 3: Incorporate Tomatoes and Black Beans
Once your seasoned beef is thick and flavorful, gently fold in the drained diced tomatoes with green chilies and the black beans. These ingredients add juicy bursts of flavor and protein, making each bite rich and satisfying. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
Grab a greased 9×13-inch baking dish for this step because layering is where the magic happens. Start with half of the crushed tortilla chips at the bottom, then spread half of your beef mixture on top, and sprinkle with half the shredded cheese. Repeat this layering process to maximize every delicious bite.
Step 5: Add Final Touches and Bake
After the layers are stacked, spread the sour cream evenly over the top and finish with the remaining shredded cheese, black olives, and green onions. Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until it’s bubbly and the cheese is perfectly melted. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving to let everything set up beautifully.
How to Serve Beef Nacho Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
One of the best parts about this Beef Nacho Casserole Recipe is the toppings. Fresh jalapeños add a delightful spicy kick, chopped tomatoes bring brightness, creamy avocado offers richness, and cilantro adds an herbaceous pop that ties everything together. Pile on whatever you like to make each serving uniquely yours.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines on its own but pairs spectacularly with simple sides like a crisp green salad for freshness or Mexican rice to complement the bold flavors. You can also serve it alongside refried beans for an extra hearty meal that’ll satisfy every appetite at the table.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the casserole in individual ramekins or small skillet pans for personal portions that wow at parties. Or scoop it into warm tortillas or lettuce wraps for a creative handheld version—perfect for casual dining or game day celebrations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, they keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors only deepen after resting, making your next meal just as delightful as the first.
Freezing
You can freeze the Beef Nacho Casserole Recipe either before baking or after. Wrap it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To warm up leftovers, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15 to 20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power, covering loosely to keep moisture in, stirring occasionally for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Substituting ground turkey or chicken will lighten up the dish while still providing plenty of protein and a delicious flavor. Just be sure to season well since those meats are milder than beef.
How do I keep the tortilla chips from getting soggy?
To maintain that wonderful crunch, layer the tortilla chips just before baking. Avoid mixing them too early with wet ingredients so they stay crisp and add texture to the casserole.
Is this casserole spicy?
The standard recipe has a mild kick due to the diced tomatoes with green chilies and taco seasoning. If you prefer it spicier, adding fresh jalapeños or extra chili powder is a great way to amp up the heat.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a few hours before baking and keep it refrigerated. Just bake it right before serving to ensure the cheese melts perfectly and the dish is piping hot.
What’s the best cheese to use for this casserole?
Cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend works best because they melt smoothly and bring rich flavor. Feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or pepper jack if you want a little extra zing.
Final Thoughts
This Beef Nacho Casserole Recipe is truly a winner any night of the week. Its layers of bold flavors, creamy cheese, and crunchy tortilla chips come together to make something unbelievably satisfying and easy to love. Give it a try—you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds and sharing it with friends and family again and again!
Print
Beef Nacho Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
A hearty and flavorful Beef Nacho Casserole featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, black beans, crushed tortilla chips, and melted cheese. This easy-to-make Tex-Mex bake is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, with optional toppings to customize each serving.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
Assembly
- 2 cups crushed tortilla chips
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Optional Toppings
- Jalapeños
- Chopped tomatoes
- Avocado
- Cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the casserole.
- Cook Beef and Onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion together until the beef is browned and the onions are soft, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, then drain any excess grease from the skillet to reduce fat.
- Season Beef Mixture: Mix in the taco seasoning and water, simmering for 2–3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Add Tomatoes and Beans: Stir in the drained diced tomatoes with green chilies and the black beans until everything is well combined.
- Layer Ingredients: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the crushed tortilla chips on the bottom, followed by half the beef mixture and half the shredded cheese. Repeat these layers.
- Add Toppings: Spread the sour cream evenly over the top layer, then sprinkle with the remaining cheese, black olives (if using), and chopped green onions.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is fully melted.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes after baking to set, then serve topped with your choice of jalapeños, chopped tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro.
Notes
- To keep the tortilla chips crispier, add them just before baking to prevent sogginess.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option.
- Leftover casserole reheats well and can be enjoyed as a dip served with extra chips.
