Basic Taco Bake Recipe

A super easy and incredibly satisfying Mexican-inspired casserole! This Basic Taco Bake recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner and ready in under an hour. Get ready for layers of flavorful ground beef, creamy refried beans, and melty cheese, all baked to bubbly perfection. A crowd-pleaser for the whole family!

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 35 mins
Calories 614.2 kcal
Protein 77g
Rating 5.0 (4 Reviews)
Basic Taco Bake

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Basic Taco Bake

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 (15-ounce) can refried beans
  • Flour Tortillas
  • Taco Seasoning
  • 1/2 cup water
  • Mexican Blend Cheese
  • sour cream (for topping, amount to taste)

How to Make Basic Taco Bake

  1. Brown 1 lb ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. Heat 1 (15-ounce) can of refried beans in a small saucepan according to package directions.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine 1 packet taco seasoning, 1/2 cup water, and the cooked ground beef. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 6-10 minutes, or until most of the liquid has evaporated.
  4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Lightly grease a 9-inch round cake pan with nonstick cooking spray.
  6. Layer one 6-inch flour tortilla in the bottom of the prepared pan.
  7. Spread half of the beef mixture evenly over the tortilla.
  8. Top with half of the refried beans and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
  9. Repeat layers with another tortilla, the remaining beef mixture, beans, and cheese.
  10. Top with a final 6-inch flour tortilla. Spread the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
  11. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the tortillas are lightly browned.
  12. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Top with your favorite sour cream and enjoy!

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

72 g

Sugar

19g

Fat

91g

Carbs

10g