Layered Taco Bake

INGREDIENTS:

For the Taco Filling:

Ground beef (1 lb)

Olive oil (1 tbsp)

Onion (1 medium, diced)

Red bell pepper (1, diced)

Garlic (2 cloves, minced)

Taco seasoning mix (2 tbsp)

Black beans (1 can, drained and rinsed)

Corn kernels (1 cup, fresh or frozen)

Diced tomatoes with green chilies (1 can, drained)

Salsa (1 cup)

Fresh cilantro (a handful, chopped, optional)

For the Layers:

Flour tortillas (6 large or 8 medium)

Mexican blend cheese (3 cups, shredded)

For Topping:

Sour cream (½ cup)

Sliced black olives (¼ cup)

Green onions (2, chopped)

Jalapeños (sliced, optional)

Fresh cilantro (chopped, optional)

Diced avocado or guacamole

DIRECTIONS:

Step 1: Prepare the Taco Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the diced onion and bell pepper until they become soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Stir in the taco seasoning mix, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and salsa. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in the chopped fresh cilantro, if using, and remove from heat.

Step 2: Assemble the Taco Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil. Place one or two tortillas (depending on size) on the bottom of the dish, trimming if necessary to cover the base completely.

Spread a layer of the taco filling over the tortillas, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers—tortilla, taco filling, cheese—until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cheese on top.

Step 3: Bake the Taco Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown on top.

Step 4: Add Toppings and Serve

Remove the taco bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Top with dollops of sour cream, sliced black olives, chopped green onions, jalapeños, and fresh cilantro. Add diced avocado or a side of guacamole for extra flavor. Slice into squares and serve warm.