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Layered Taco Bake Recipe

A delicious, easy-to-make, oven-baked casserole featuring seasoned beef, tortillas, cheese, and taco sauce, perfect for family meals and gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 6
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Beef Filling:

  • 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey for a leaner option
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 packet taco seasoning or homemade, see below
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 can 10 oz diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel), drained
  • 1/2 cup black beans optional
  • 1/2 cup corn optional

For the Layering:

  • 6 small flour tortillas or corn tortillas for a gluten-free option
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup taco sauce or salsa

Optional Toppings:

  • Chopped cilantro
  • Sliced jalapeños
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Avocado slices
  • Sliced black olives
  • Additional sour cream or guacamole

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling

  • Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned (about 5–7 minutes).
  • Drain excess grease, then add chopped onions and garlic. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until onions are soft.
  • Stir in taco seasoning and water. Mix well and simmer for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  • Add drained diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn. Stir and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Assemble the Layers

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of taco sauce or salsa on the bottom.
  • Place two tortillas over the sauce, slightly overlapping them.
  • Spread a layer of the beef mixture over the tortillas, followed by a handful of shredded cheese.
  • Repeat the layering process (tortillas, beef, cheese) two more times, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
  • Drizzle sour cream over the top in a zig-zag pattern.

Step 3: Bake

  • Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for another 5–10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  • Let it sit for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

  • Garnish with your favorite toppings and serve warm. Pair it with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a crisp salad.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes.
  • Lightly toast tortillas before layering to prevent sogginess.