Cheesy Beef Taco Casserole

Servings: 6 people
Calories: ~520 per serving
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning

• ½ cup water

• 6 small flour tortillas (or corn tortillas)

• 1 cup salsa

• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

• ½ cup sour cream (for topping)

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

• Sliced jalapeños or diced tomatoes (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the Beef:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until beef is browned and onion is soft. Drain excess fat.

3. Season:
   Stir in taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens.

4. Assemble Casserole:
   Layer 3 tortillas on the bottom of the baking dish. Spread half of the beef mixture over the tortillas. Sprinkle with half of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Repeat with remaining tortillas, beef, and cheeses.

5. Bake:
   Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve:
   Top with sour cream, fresh cilantro, jalapeños, or diced tomatoes if desired. Serve warm.