Description
This Cowboy Casserole is your go-to comfort dish, combining the richness of seasoned beef, the zest of Tex-Mex flavors, and the gooey satisfaction of melted cheddar cheese. Whether you’re hunting for easy dinner ideas, quick weeknight meals, or cozy food ideas for a family night in, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It’s perfect as a quick dinner, a hearty potluck addition, or a delicious make-ahead meal.
Loaded with black beans, corn, crushed tortilla chips, and topped with melty cheese and scallions, this easy recipe is an explosion of textures and flavors. The combination of creamy, crunchy, and savory will leave you craving every bite. Serve it hot and garnish with sour cream or avocado for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (optional)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups tortilla chips, lightly crushed
1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft (3–4 minutes).
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula (6–8 minutes). Drain excess fat.
- Stir in taco seasoning and 1/4 cup of water. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Add black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer half of the crushed tortilla chips on the bottom.
- Spoon the beef mixture over the chips and top with half of the shredded cheese.
- Add remaining chips, then top with the rest of the beef mixture and cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let cool for 5 minutes, garnish with green onions and sour cream if desired, and serve hot.