Name: Cheesy Beef Nacho Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 cup salsa; 1 cup black beans, drained; 3 cups tortilla chips; 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup sour cream; Jalapeños; Tomatoes; Olives; Cilantro

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If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the irresistible flavors of nachos into a warm, comforting dish that can feed a crowd, then this Cheesy Beef Nacho Casserole Recipe is your next go-to! Imagine layers of seasoned ground beef, crunchy tortilla chips, hearty black beans, and gooey melted cheddar cheese baked to perfection – all the flavors of your favorite nachos assembled into an easy casserole that’s perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or anytime you’re craving a satisfying Tex-Mex feast. This dish delivers on taste, texture, and the cozy feeling of homemade comfort food, making it impossible not to fall in love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white marble surface with several small clear glass bowls and a white bowl arranged neatly. The white bowl on the left contains yellow tortilla chips with a crispy texture. Next to it are clear bowls filled with different ingredients: black beans with a shiny, smooth texture; loose shredded yellow cheese with a light and soft appearance; small chopped white onions; finely chopped green herbs; a mixture of pale pink shredded meat; a bowl of red salsa with chunks and a glossy finish; and small amounts of red and white powders or sauces in mini clear bowls. A glass mug with an amber liquid is also present. The scene looks bright and clean. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these simple but essential ingredients is the first step to creating this sensational casserole. Each one plays a vital role: from the rich, savory beef, to the zing of taco seasoning, the creaminess of melted cheese, and the satisfying crunch of tortilla chips.

1 lb ground beef: The hearty protein base that brings rich flavor and texture to the dish.
1 packet taco seasoning: Adds that signature Tex-Mex spice blend that elevates the beef mixture perfectly.
1 cup salsa: Brings a juicy tang and subtle heat, infusing the casserole with freshness.
1 cup black beans, drained: Adds fiber, protein, and a creamy bite to balance the crunch.
3 cups tortilla chips: Layered throughout for irresistible crispness that softens slightly when baked.
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: The melty, gooey glue that holds all the flavors together beautifully.
½ cup sour cream: A cool, creamy topping that offers a tangy contrast to the warm spices.
Optional toppings (jalapeños, tomatoes, olives, cilantro): Customize your casserole with fresh, bright accents and a little heat.

How to Make Cheesy Beef Nacho Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat and cooking the ground beef until it’s browned and crumbly. This step builds a deep, savory foundation for your casserole. Be sure to drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.

Step 2: Season and Combine

Once your beef is cooked, stir in the packet of taco seasoning, followed by the cup of salsa and the drained black beans. This mixture will be bursting with flavor and moisture, creating the perfect filling for the casserole layers.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

In a baking dish, spread a layer of tortilla chips to create that classic nacho crunch base. Next, spoon half of the beef mixture evenly over the chips, then sprinkle with a layer of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat this layering process once more—chips, beef, cheese—to build a hearty casserole that’s packed full of flavors and textures.

Step 4: Bake Until Bubbling

Place the assembled dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese has melted into a golden, bubbly topping. This step melds all the ingredients together, creating that irresistible casserole warmth.

Step 5: Add Sour Cream and Finish Toppings

Once baked, dollop sour cream on top and scatter your choice of optional toppings like fresh jalapeños, diced tomatoes, olives, or cilantro. These final touches add freshness, color, and an extra layer of flavor that truly completes the dish.

How to Serve Cheesy Beef Nacho Casserole Recipe

A blue pot filled with a layered nacho dish showing visible layers of melted yellow and orange cheese mixed with chips, black beans, and bits of red bell pepper. The top layer is decorated with slices of green lime, small red cherry tomatoes, jalapeño slices, and sprinkled green herbs. A wooden spoon rests inside the pot, mixing the bottom layers. Next to the pot are two white bowls each holding a scoop of the nacho dish topped with white sour cream, cilantro leaves, and lime slices, with a silver spoon in each bowl. Three round tortilla chips lie beside the pot on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance the casserole’s flavor and presentation by adding toppings such as chopped green onions, extra shredded cheese, or a squeeze of lime juice. These simple garnishes bring brightness and texture contrast that transform every bite.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette, or creamy guacamole and fresh pico de gallo on the side. These sides provide balance to the richness of the casserole and brighten up your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets to give each guest a personalized portion. Alternatively, scoop the casserole over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside warm refried beans for an extra hearty Tex-Mex feast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can easily keep your leftovers fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a perfect next-day lunch or dinner option.

Freezing

This Cheesy Beef Nacho Casserole Recipe freezes well too! Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, bake straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in an oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and the cheese is melted again. If you want to retain some crispiness, sprinkle fresh tortilla chips on top before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works as a leaner alternative and will still absorb all the taco seasonings beautifully, giving you a lighter but just as flavorful casserole.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, provided you use gluten-free tortilla chips and taco seasoning, this casserole makes a delicious gluten-free meal suitable for most dietary needs.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Definitely. Swap out the ground beef for sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, corn, and mushrooms, and consider adding extra beans or a meat substitute to keep it hearty and satisfying.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Cheddar cheese gives that classic sharp taste and melts beautifully. You can also mix in Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend to add complexity and creaminess.

How spicy is this casserole?

The spice level depends mostly on your choice of taco seasoning and optional toppings like jalapeños. You can easily adjust the heat by choosing mild seasoning or skipping the spicy garnishes if you prefer a gentler flavor.

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say this Cheesy Beef Nacho Casserole Recipe will quickly become a family favorite that’s both comforting and exciting to serve. It’s a simple, flavorful way to enjoy all the best parts of nachos without the mess, perfect for sharing any day of the week. So grab your ingredients and get baking—you won’t regret bringing this cheesy, beefy delight to your table!