Ingredients:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 can (15 oz) refried beans
- 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Tortilla chips, for serving
Directions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large baking dish.
2. Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning and water. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the beef is well-coated and the liquid is absorbed.
3. Assemble the Layers
- Spread the refried beans evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- Add the seasoned beef as the next layer.
- In a small bowl, mix the sour cream and cream cheese until smooth, then spread this over the beef layer.
4. Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the creamy layer.
5. Bake the Casserole
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
6. Add Fresh Toppings
Remove from the oven and top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, black olives, jalapeños (if desired), and chopped cilantro.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole cool slightly, then serve with tortilla chips for scooping.
Enjoy your flavorful taco-inspired casserole!