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Easy Cheesy Beef Taco Casserole

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A quick and easy dump-and-bake casserole combining ground beef, taco seasoning, pasta, salsa, and cheese for a comforting weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (85% lean preferred)
  • 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup chunky salsa (medium heat or mild)
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
  • 4 oz diced green chilies (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked elbow macaroni, ground beef, salsa, water, taco seasoning, diced green chilies (if using), onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly.
  3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
  4. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
  5. Bake for 40 minutes. At about 35 minutes, check if the pasta is tender and the beef is cooked through. If not, bake an additional 5-10 minutes.
  6. Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
  7. Return to oven uncovered and bake for 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden spots.
  8. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not skip covering the casserole with foil to steam the beef and pasta properly. Mix ingredients gently to avoid breaking pasta. Check pasta doneness at 35 minutes. Add cheese only near the end to keep it melty. If casserole looks dry before cheese, sprinkle a little extra water around edges before covering. Let rest 5 minutes before serving. For a spicy twist, add jalapeños or cayenne pepper. Use gluten-free pasta and check seasoning for gluten-free version. For dairy-free, use vegan cheese and suitable salsa.

Nutrition

Keywords: taco casserole, cheesy beef casserole, dump and bake, quick dinner, weeknight meal, easy casserole, taco bake

Find it online: https://cooksyla.com/easy-cheesy-beef-taco-casserole-recipe-perfect-for-quick-dump-and-bake-meals/