Loaded Taco Beef Casserole (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 450 g ground beef
02 - 1 packet (28 g) taco seasoning
03 - 240 ml salsa
04 - 425 g canned black beans, drained and rinsed
05 - 160 g frozen corn
06 - 120 g crushed tortilla chips
07 - 200 g shredded cheddar cheese
08 - 65 g sliced black olives
09 - 25 g chopped green onions
10 - 15 g chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Set the oven to 175°C and allow it to fully preheat.
02 - In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is evenly browned. Drain excess fat.
03 - Add taco seasoning and salsa to the beef. Stir thoroughly and let it simmer until the mixture thickens slightly, about 2–3 minutes.
04 - In a mixing bowl, blend the beef mixture with drained black beans and frozen corn until evenly incorporated.
05 - Distribute half of the crushed tortilla chips evenly across the bottom of a 33 x 23 cm baking dish.
06 - Spread the beef mixture over the chips, then sprinkle with half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
07 - Add the remaining crushed tortilla chips as the next layer, followed by the rest of the cheddar cheese.
08 - Scatter sliced black olives and chopped green onions evenly across the top.
09 - Place in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is thoroughly melted and bubbling.
10 - Allow to cool slightly before garnishing with chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve warm.

# Notes:

01 - Add chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. For vegetarian preparation, omit beef and add more beans or sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers and zucchini. For enhanced creaminess, stir in 240 ml sour cream or 225 g cream cheese into the beef mixture before baking.