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This taco casserole transforms everyone's favorite Mexican dish into a hearty, family-friendly dinner that's perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of seasoned ground beef topped with a fluffy biscuit layer creates a satisfying meal that brings taco night to a whole new level.
I first made this casserole when hosting a game night with friends, and it quickly became our go-to crowd pleaser. The way the biscuit layer puffs up golden brown while the seasoned beef stays juicy underneath creates the perfect comfort food combination.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: Provides the hearty protein base make sure to choose 80/20 for best flavor
- Taco seasoning packet: Adds authentic Mexican flavor without measuring multiple spices
- Eggs: Help bind the biscuit layer and create a fluffy texture
- Whole milk: Adds richness to the biscuit layer
- Biscuit mix: Creates a golden crust that perfectly complements the savory beef
- Sour cream: Adds cooling creaminess to balance the spiced meat
- Fresh lettuce: Brings necessary crunch and freshness
- Diced tomatoes: Add juicy brightness to each bite
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Creates that melty goodness essential for any taco dish
- Black olives: Optional but add wonderful briny notes to complement the other flavors
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl combine eggs and milk whisking until fully incorporated. Add the biscuit mix along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir just until combined being careful not to overmix which could make the topping tough. The consistency should be similar to a thick pancake batter.
- Cook the Meat Mixture:
- Heat a large skillet over medium high heat. Add ground beef breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. Season generously with salt and pepper and continue cooking until completely browned about 7 to 8 minutes. Carefully drain excess fat from the pan then add the taco seasoning. If the mixture seems dry add 2 to 3 tablespoons of water to help distribute the seasoning evenly.
- Layer the Casserole:
- Transfer the seasoned beef to your greased baking dish spreading it into an even layer that covers the entire bottom. Carefully pour the prepared biscuit batter over the beef using a spatula to ensure it covers the meat completely. The batter will be thick so take your time spreading it out to the edges.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the casserole in your preheated oven on the middle rack. Bake for 22 to 25 minutes watching carefully toward the end. The biscuit layer should rise and turn a beautiful golden brown with a slight spring when touched. If it starts browning too quickly cover loosely with foil.
- Add the Toppings:
- After removing from the oven allow the casserole to rest for exactly 10 minutes this helps everything set properly. Spread a layer of sour cream across the entire biscuit surface. Layer on shredded lettuce followed by diced tomatoes black olives and finish with a generous layer of sharp cheddar cheese.
The taco seasoning is truly the heart of this dish. I always keep extra packets in my pantry because my family requests this casserole so often. My daughter once told me it tastes like a taco and a biscuit had a delicious baby which is now our family's inside joke whenever I make it.
Make Ahead Instructions
This casserole works wonderfully as a make ahead meal. You can prepare the beef layer and refrigerate it separately from the biscuit mixture for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake simply bring the beef to room temperature while you mix the biscuit topping fresh. This ensures the biscuit layer rises properly during baking rather than becoming dense if refrigerated in the wet state.
Customization Options
This recipe welcomes endless variations based on your family's preferences. Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Add a can of drained black beans or corn to the meat mixture for extra texture and nutrition. For spice lovers mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat layer. You can even swap the cheddar for pepper jack or a Mexican cheese blend for different flavor profiles.
Serving Suggestions
While this casserole is a complete meal on its own it pairs wonderfully with simple sides. A green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette adds freshness. Spanish rice makes an excellent accompaniment for heartier appetites. For a fun presentation set out bowls of additional toppings like guacamole pico de gallo or different hot sauces so everyone can customize their portion.
Storage Tips
Leftover taco casserole will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. I recommend storing any portions without the fresh toppings and adding those just before serving. To reheat place in a 350°F oven covered with foil for about 15 minutes or until heated through. The microwave works in a pinch but may make the biscuit layer slightly softer.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef in this casserole. Just ensure to season it generously for the best flavor.
- → What can I use instead of biscuit mix?
If you don’t have biscuit mix, you can make your own using flour, baking powder, salt, and shortening or butter, or use puff pastry as a substitute.
- → How do I make this dish spicier?
You can add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ground beef or top the casserole with hot sauce before serving.
- → Can this casserole be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish up to the baking step, refrigerate it, and bake just before serving. Fresh toppings can be added after baking.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- → What are some topping alternatives?
In addition to lettuce, tomatoes, and olives, you can use green onions, avocado, or even crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch.