Taco Bake Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 package (10-12 ounces) tortilla chips
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.

2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.

3. Add the taco seasoning mix, black beans, diced tomatoes and green chilies, tomato sauce, frozen corn, and water to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.

4. Arrange a layer of tortilla chips in the bottom of the baking dish.

5. Spoon half of the beef mixture over the tortilla chips.

6. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.

7. Repeat with another layer of tortilla chips, beef mixture, and shredded cheddar cheese.

8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

9. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped cilantro.

10. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.


Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 450
Total Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 1200mg
Total Carbohydrates: 28g
Dietary Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 4g
Protein: 29g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef.
- Pinto beans or kidney beans can be used instead of black beans.
- Salsa can be used instead of diced tomatoes and green chilies.
- Monterey Jack cheese can be used instead of cheddar cheese.
- Fresh or frozen bell peppers can be added to the beef mixture.

Variations:
- Add a layer of sliced avocado or guacamole on top of the beef mixture before adding the cheese.
- Top with sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving.
- Use crushed tortilla chips instead of whole chips for a different texture.
- Add a layer of cooked rice or quinoa to the bottom of the baking dish before adding the tortilla chips.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to drain any excess fat from the ground beef before adding the taco seasoning mix.
- Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break up the ground beef into small pieces while cooking.
- Crush the tortilla chips slightly before layering them in the baking dish for easier serving.
- Let the taco bake cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.

Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the taco bake on a large platter with a side of sour cream and chopped cilantro.

Garnishes:
Chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, sour cream, or sliced jalapenos.

Pairings:
Serve with a side of Spanish rice or a simple green salad.

Suggested side dishes:
Spanish rice, green salad, or roasted vegetables.

Troubleshooting advice:
If the tortilla chips become too soggy, try using less water in the beef mixture or using crushed tortilla chips instead.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.

Food history:
Tacos are a traditional Mexican dish that have been enjoyed for centuries. The first recorded mention of tacos dates back to the 18th century.

Flavor profiles:
Savory, spicy, and cheesy.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the taco bake as a main dish for dinner or as a party appetizer.

Related Categories

Cooking Method: N/A

Course Type: N/A

Dietary: N/A

Ingredient: N/A

Meal type: N/A

Occassion: N/A

Region: N/A

Taste: Savory, Spicy, Tangy, Cheesy, Hearty