Smash Taco Casserole – Cheesy, Crispy, and Irresistible

When I first made this Smash Taco Casserole, it instantly became a weeknight favorite in my house.

It’s the perfect marriage of a juicy “smash burger” and cheesy taco bake — crispy on the edges, loaded with flavor, and packed with that melty, gooey goodness everyone loves.

If you’re looking for something that delivers taco night excitement with burger-level indulgence, this dish is it.

Top it off with sliced jalapeños, sour cream, and shredded lettuce for a complete meal.

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Recipe Highlights

This casserole is a bold twist on two comfort food classics — the viral smash burger and everyone’s favorite tacos.

It has all the crave-worthy layers: seasoned ground beef, crispy edges, melted cheddar, and crunchy toppings that make each bite pop.

Think of it as taco night upgraded with serious comfort food energy.

Highlights:

• Combines the best of smash burgers and tacos in one dish
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• Cheesy, crispy, and full of layers of flavor
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• Topped with fresh ingredients for perfect contrast
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• Quick, easy, and ready in under an hour
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• Guaranteed crowd-pleaser for family dinners or game nights

Ingredient Notes

• Ground Beef (1 pound): Choose 80/20 for juicy, flavorful results — the crispy “smash” edges make all the difference.
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• Taco Seasoning (2 tablespoons): Adds authentic taco spice and warmth.
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• Onion (1 medium yellow): Brings savory sweetness and texture.
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• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Deepens the overall flavor and enhances the beef’s flavor.
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• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (2 cups): Melts beautifully for that gooey taco-bake finish.
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• Tortilla Chips (2 cups crushed): Adds crunch and mimics taco shells in casserole form.
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• Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 ounces): Adds moisture and tang to the meat layer.
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• Jalapeño Slices (¼ cup): Optional, but adds a great kick of heat.
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• Sour Cream (½ cup): Balances the spice and adds creamy richness.
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• Shredded Lettuce (1 cup): For a fresh topping contrast when serving.
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• Salt & Black Pepper: Essential to bring out the depth of every layer.

How to Make My Smash Taco Casserole

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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2. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned and crispy around the edges. Add taco seasoning, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir in diced tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes.
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3. Layer the Casserole: In the baking dish, spread a layer of crushed tortilla chips at the bottom. Add the beef mixture on top and sprinkle generously with shredded cheddar.
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4. Bake: Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and lightly golden.
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5. Add Toppings: Let cool slightly, then top with sour cream, shredded lettuce, and sliced jalapeños before serving.

Preparation Made Simple

Preparing this casserole is straightforward and quick.

In just about 45 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve.

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet, then sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until they become fragrant and translucent.

Mix in the taco seasoning and diced tomatoes for a burst of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.

Building the Casserole

Layering is key to achieving the perfect taco casserole.

Begin with a base of crushed tortilla chips, which adds a delightful crunch to each bite.

Next, spread the seasoned beef mixture over the chips, followed by a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese.

Repeat the layers to create a hearty dish that is both visually appealing and delicious.

Baking to Perfection

Once assembled, the casserole is ready for the oven.

Bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and bubble.

This step is crucial as it melds all the flavors together, creating a comforting and inviting aroma that fills your kitchen.

Garnishing for Appeal

The finishing touches elevate the dish from good to great.

After baking, top the casserole with fresh shredded lettuce, dollops of sour cream, and slices of jalapeños for a pop of color and flavor.

These toppings not only enhance the presentation but also add a refreshing crunch that complements the rich layers below.

Serving Suggestions

Whether it’s a casual family meal or a festive gathering, this taco casserole is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

This Smash Taco Casserole pairs perfectly with:

• Mexican rice or cilantro-lime rice
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• Fresh guacamole and pico de gallo
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• A simple green salad with lime vinaigrette
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• A refreshing margarita or sparkling water with lime

For an added crunch, serve the casserole with a side of crushed tortilla chips.

This combination offers a delightful contrast in texture and makes for a fun dining experience.

Tips for the Best Smash Taco Casserole

For extra crispiness, let your beef sear undisturbed in the skillet for a minute or two before stirring — that’s where the “smash” texture comes from.

Always bake uncovered to allow the cheese to brown slightly and create those irresistible crispy edges.

To take it up a notch, drizzle the top with taco sauce or creamy chipotle ranch before serving.

Storage and Warming of Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or in the microwave in 30-second intervals.

To keep the crunch, add fresh chips on top just before reheating.