Tostada Casserole Recipe 🌮
Overview:
If you’re craving the flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine in a dish that’s easy to make and sure to please the whole family, look no further than this Tostada Casserole recipe! With layers of savory ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, gooey cheddar cheese, and crunchy corn chips, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Best of all, it comes together in just 35 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings with friends. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make this delicious Tostada Casserole!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 cups corn chips
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 ounces) beans (your choice), drained and rinsed
Instructions:
| Step | Description | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). | Prep: 5 mins |
| 2 | Brown beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat. | Cook: 10 mins |
| 3 | Add flavor: Stir in 1 1/2 cups of tomato sauce and the taco seasoning. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. | Cook: 5 mins |
| 4 | Prepare the base: Line the bottom of a 2-quart shallow baking dish with 2 cups of corn chips. This will create a crunchy foundation for your casserole. | Prep: 5 mins |
| 5 | Crush the chips: Take the remaining corn chips and crush them into smaller pieces. Set them aside for later use as a crunchy topping. | Prep: 3 mins |
| 6 | Layer the ingredients: Spoon the meat mixture evenly over the corn chips in the baking dish, creating a hearty base for your casserole. | Assembly: 5 mins |
| 7 | Add beans: In a bowl, combine the drained and rinsed beans with the remaining tomato sauce. Spread this bean mixture over the meat layer in the baking dish, ensuring even coverage. | Assembly: 3 mins |
| 8 | Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together and the casserole to heat through. | Cook: 25 mins |
| 9 | Add final touches: After 25 minutes, uncover the casserole and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, followed by the crushed corn chips for extra crunch. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. | Cook: 7 mins |
Serving:
Once the Tostada Casserole is hot, bubbly, and golden brown, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with your favorite toppings such as diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, sour cream, or avocado slices for an extra burst of flavor and color. This dish pairs perfectly with a side of Mexican rice, a fresh green salad, or some warm flour tortillas. Enjoy the delicious fusion of flavors in every bite!
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 491.9
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 13.2g
- Cholesterol: 115.3mg
- Sodium: 1129.6mg
- Carbohydrates: 24.8g
- Fiber: 7.2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 35.4g
Tips:
- Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. You can add extra toppings like sliced jalapeños, black olives, or diced onions for a personalized touch.
- If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought taco seasoning instead of making your own.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Conclusion:
With its flavorful combination of seasoned ground beef, creamy beans, gooey cheese, and crunchy corn chips, this Tostada Casserole is sure to become a family favorite in no time! Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a comforting meal with a Southwestern flair, this easy-to-make dish ticks all the boxes. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Tex-Mex heaven with every bite of this delicious casserole!
