How to Make Taco Casserole

Casseroles aren't the same old boring, soggy, hot dishes they used to be. This recipe offers both appealing taste and texture. Ortega seasonings spice up the filling, and layers of taco shells give it crunch. Makes 8 servings.

Things You'll Need

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup (1 small) chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup Ortega® Thick & Smooth Taco Sauce
• 1/2 cup (4-ounce can) Ortega® Diced Green Chiles
• 1/2 cup (2 1/4-ounce can) sliced ripe olives, drained, divided
• 1 package (1.25 ounces) Ortega® Taco Seasoning Mix
• 1 package (12) Ortega® Taco Shells or (12) Ortega® White Corn Taco Shells, broken, divided
• 2 cups (8 ounces) Sargento® ChefStyle Shredded Mild Cheddar Cheese, divided
• Chopped tomatoes (optional)
• Sliced green onions (optional)
• Groceries
• Chef's Knives
• Baking Dish
• Cheese Graters
• Cutting Boards
• Measuring Cups
• Skillets
• Wooden Spoons
• Measuring cups

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375º F.

2. Cook beef, onion and garlic in a large saucepan until beef is browned.

3. Stir in water, taco sauce, chiles, 1/4 cup olives and seasoning mix.

4. Let this simmer over low heat for 3 to 4 minutes.

5. Lay out half of the broken shells on the bottom of a greased 12 x 8-inch baking dish.

6. Cover with half of the meat sauce. Sprinkle with 1 cup cheese, then repeat with remaining taco shells, meat sauce and cheese to create layers of the different ingredients.

7. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until bubbly and cheese is melted.

8. Top the casserole with remaining olives, tomatoes and green onions.