Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ground Turkey Taco Casserole is a flavorful, hearty dish that brings all the best elements of tacos into a warm, cheesy bake. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or feeding a crowd. With seasoned ground turkey, beans, veggies, and a golden cheese topping, this casserole is both satisfying and easy to customize to your taste.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground turkeyolive oilyellow oniongarlicbell peppers (red and/or green)taco seasoningdiced tomatoes with green chiliesblack beansfrozen cornshredded cheddar cheesesour creamflour tortillassaltpepperfresh cilantro (optional for garnish)

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the diced onion and bell peppers until softened.

Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, then add the ground turkey, cooking until browned and no longer pink.

Stir in taco seasoning, salt, pepper, diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, and corn. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Remove from heat and stir in sour cream and half of the shredded cheese until combined.

Layer the bottom of the baking dish with flour tortillas, followed by a layer of the turkey mixture. Repeat layers, ending with turkey mixture on top.

Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top.

Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6-8 people.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 25 minutesTotal time: 40 minutes

Variations

Swap ground turkey for ground beef or chicken.

Use low-carb tortillas or tortilla chips for a crunchier base.

Add jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra kick.

Mix in cooked rice or quinoa for a heartier casserole.

Top with avocado slices or guacamole before serving.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.Casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, but be sure to add seasoning since canned tomatoes often come pre-seasoned.

Is this dish spicy?

It’s mildly spicy—adjust taco seasoning or add jalapeños to control the heat.

What kind of cheese works best?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend all melt well and add great flavor.

Can I make this casserole dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free sour cream and cheese alternatives.

Can I skip the tortillas?

You can layer with cooked rice or omit the base entirely for a low-carb version.

Does it freeze well?

Yes, just make sure it’s cooled before freezing and wrap tightly.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely—zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms are great additions.

Can I use homemade taco seasoning?

Yes, homemade blends work great and let you control the salt and spice level.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use two baking dishes or a larger pan and adjust baking time slightly.

Conclusion

Ground Turkey Taco Casserole is a simple, crowd-pleasing meal that brings the bold taste of tacos into a comforting, cheesy casserole form. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and perfect for busy nights or meal planning. Give it a try and enjoy taco night with a delicious twist!