Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Place the ground beef and diced onion in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the beef while breaking it into crumbles until it is fully browned and the onions are soft.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet and return the meat to the stovetop.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and water then simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
- Spread the refried beans in an even layer across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Layer the seasoned beef and onion mixture over the top of the refried beans.
- Sprinkle the diced green chilies evenly over the beef layer for a hint of zesty flavor.
- Top the beef and bean layers with half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Spread the Fritos corn chips in a thick and even layer over the cheese.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the corn chips.
- Bake the casserole for 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and the edges are bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and top with shredded lettuce tomatoes olives and a dollop of sour cream.
Notes
Using lean ground beef ensures that the bottom layers of the bake do not become overly greasy or heavy.
Wait to add the fresh cold toppings like lettuce and sour cream until just before serving to maintain their texture.
You can substitute the corn chips with crushed Nacho Cheese Doritos if you prefer a different zesty crunch.
For a spicier version add sliced jalapeños to the top of the cheese layer before sliding the dish into the oven.
Would you like me to find a recipe for a zesty homemade guacamole to serve as a side for this taco bake?