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To make your Loaded Nacho Casserole, gather these ingredients: - 1 lb ground beef or turkey - 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed - 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies - 1 packet taco seasoning - 2 cups tortilla chips - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese - 1 cup sour cream - 1 cup salsa - 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional) - 1 avocado, diced - Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish You can make your casserole even better with these optional items: - Olives for added saltiness - Corn for sweetness and crunch - Green onions for a fresh bite - Extra cheese for more melty goodness Don’t worry if you lack some ingredients. Here are some swaps: - Use ground chicken or plant-based meat instead of beef or turkey. - Swap black beans for pinto beans or kidney beans. - Use canned tomatoes with herbs if you can’t find tomatoes with chilies. - Try Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier option. These tips help you customize your Loaded Nacho Casserole to fit your taste and what you have at home. Enjoy the process and get creative! {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even cooking. 2. In a large skillet, brown 1 lb of ground beef or turkey over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. 3. Once browned, drain any extra fat. This helps keep the dish light and tasty. 4. Next, stir in 1 can of black beans, 1 can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, and 1 packet of taco seasoning. Cook this mixture for about 5 minutes until it is hot. 1. Grab a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread half of the tortilla chips on the bottom. 2. Layer half of the meat mixture over the chips. Make sure it covers them well. 3. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the meat. 4. Repeat this process with the remaining tortilla chips, meat mixture, and cheddar cheese. This creates great flavor in every bite. 1. Place the casserole in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cheese is melted and bubbly. 2. Once baked, take it out and let it cool for 5 minutes. This helps the layers set. 3. Drizzle sour cream and salsa over the top. This adds creaminess and tang. 4. Finally, garnish with diced avocado, sliced jalapeño, and chopped cilantro. This adds a fresh touch to your dish. To bake your casserole just right, preheat your oven to 350°F. This temperature melts the cheese nicely without burning it. Once you layer your casserole, bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on it. You want the cheese to be bubbly and golden, not dark brown. After baking, let it cool for about five minutes. This helps the layers set, making it easier to serve. When serving, dish up straight from the casserole. This keeps it warm and inviting. I like to place extra salsa and sour cream on the side. Guests can customize their plates, which makes it fun! Adding a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top adds color and flavor. You can also serve it with tortilla chips for crunch. To boost the flavor of your casserole, try adding spices. A pinch of cumin or smoked paprika adds depth. You can also mix in some corn for a sweet crunch. If you like heat, add more jalapeños or use spicy salsa. For a creamier texture, add more sour cream before serving. These small changes can take your casserole to the next level! Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients enhance the flavor of your casserole. Opt for fresh tomatoes and herbs whenever possible for a vibrant taste. Layering is Key: Proper layering ensures every bite is flavorful. Make sure to evenly distribute the meat, chips, and cheese for consistent taste throughout. Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeños or use a spicier taco seasoning to tailor the heat level to your preference. Add Variety: Feel free to incorporate other toppings like olives, corn, or different types of cheese to create a unique twist on this classic dish. {{image_2}} To make a vegetarian loaded nacho casserole, swap the meat for more beans. You can use one can of black beans and one can of pinto beans. This keeps the protein high. Add extra veggies like corn, bell peppers, and zucchini. They add great flavor and color. Use the same taco seasoning for a punch. Don’t forget to layer it just like the meat version! For a spicy loaded nacho casserole, you can use spicy ground meat. Ground turkey or beef with added chili powder works well. Add diced jalapeños in the meat mix for more heat. Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a kick. Top it off with hot salsa before serving. This will warm you up and delight your taste buds! If you want a simpler version, use fewer ingredients. You can skip the jalapeños and sour cream. Use just ground meat, beans, and cheese for a basic version. You can also use tortilla strips instead of chips for a crunch. This makes it easy and fun for kids. Everyone loves a good nacho casserole! After enjoying your loaded nacho casserole, let the leftovers cool first. Then, place them in an airtight container. This keeps the casserole fresh for about three to four days in the fridge. Make sure to cover it well to avoid drying out. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep moisture in. Bake for about 15 to 20 minutes until heated through. You can also use a microwave if you're in a hurry. Just warm a single portion on high for 1 to 2 minutes. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cut it into portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, it stays good for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. You can use several options. Try beans, lentils, or mushrooms for a veggie twist. For a lighter choice, use ground turkey or chicken. These options keep the flavor but change the texture. If you want a rich taste, use plant-based meat. This will add protein and keep it hearty. Yes, you can! Prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it and store it in the fridge. When you're ready to bake, take it out and let it sit for 20 minutes. Then pop it in the oven as you normally would. This makes hosting easy and fun. To spice it up, add more taco seasoning or a few diced jalapeños. If you need it milder, use less seasoning and skip the spicy peppers. You can also use mild salsa. Remember, you can always taste and adjust as you go. This way, you can find your perfect heat level. Get creative with your toppings! Try sliced olives, diced tomatoes, or green onions. You can also add corn or pickled jalapeños for extra flavor. For a fresh touch, add chopped cilantro or sliced avocado. Each topping enhances the dish and makes it even more delicious. Loaded nacho casserole is fun and easy to make. We covered simple steps to prepare it, layer the ingredients, and bake it perfectly. You can customize with optional ingredients and substitutions to fit your taste. Remember the tips for serving and storing leftovers. Consider the variations we discussed, like vegetarian or spicy versions. Now you have all the tools to create a tasty dish. I hope you enjoy making this nacho casserole as much as eating it!

Loaded Nacho Casserole

A delicious and hearty casserole layered with tortilla chips, seasoned meat, and melted cheese, topped with fresh garnishes.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 6
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 2 cups tortilla chips
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 1 jalapeño sliced (optional)
  • 1 avocado diced
  • to taste chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  • Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and taco seasoning. Cook for another 5 minutes until heated through.
  • In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the tortilla chips evenly along the bottom.
  • Layer half of the meat mixture over the chips, then sprinkle with half of the cheddar cheese on top.
  • Repeat the layering process with the remaining tortilla chips, meat mixture, and cheddar cheese.
  • Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Once out of the oven, let it cool for 5 minutes and then drizzle sour cream and salsa over the top.
  • Garnish with avocado, jalapeño slices, and cilantro before serving.

Notes

Serve directly from the casserole dish with extra salsa and sour cream on the side for guests to customize their plates. Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top for a vibrant finish.
Keyword casserole, cheese, ground beef, nachos, taco