Cheesy Taco Casserole Bake
This Cheesy Taco Casserole Bake is a family favorite that combines the best of Tex-Mex flavors with the cozy comfort of a baked dish. Layers of tender ground beef, taco seasoning, beans, corn, tortillas, and gooey melted cheese create a meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights.
It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and freezer-friendly. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or a weekend get-together, this cheesy bake will always be a hit at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- ½ cup water
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 ½ cups frozen corn
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 medium flour tortillas
- Sour cream, chopped cilantro, and jalapeño slices (optional toppings)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Sauté onions for 5 minutes until soft.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain extra fat.
- Stir in taco seasoning and water. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Mix in diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn. Stir well.
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, place 2 tortillas to cover the bottom.
- Spread ⅓ of the meat mixture over tortillas, then sprinkle with ⅓ of the cheese.
- Repeat layers two more times, finishing with cheese on top.
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Add toppings if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Calories: About 480 kcal | Servings: 6
Why This Recipe Works
- Quick and easy to make with simple ingredients
- Perfect balance of cheesy, savory, and spicy flavors
- Family-friendly and customizable for picky eaters
- Can be made ahead, refrigerated, or frozen
- Great for weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd
Tips to Make It Even Better
- Add jalapeños or hot sauce for extra spice
- Use ground turkey, chicken, or sausage instead of beef
- Add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms
- Try different cheeses such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack
- Top with fresh avocado, green onions, or a squeeze of lime
Meal Prep and Storage
This taco bake is meal prep friendly. You can assemble it ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake when ready. It also freezes well—wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months. Leftovers reheat easily and taste even better the next day as the flavors blend together.
Final Thoughts

The Cheesy Taco Casserole Bake is simple, satisfying, and full of Tex-Mex goodness. With its layers of tortillas, beef, beans, corn, and melted cheese, it’s the perfect comfort meal that brings everyone together. Serve it for dinner, parties, or potlucks, and don’t be surprised when the pan is empty in no time!