## Taco Bake Fiesta – A Delicious and Easy Mexican Dish
Imagine enjoying a mouthwatering combination of ground beef, cheesy goodness, crunchy tortilla chips, and spicy salsa. You can have all of these delicious components in one dish with this Taco Bake Fiesta recipe. The preparation time is quick and easy, and the result is simply too good!
## Why Make This Recipe
Taco Bake Fiesta is not just delicious but also versatile. It is easily customizable according to your taste preferences. Love extra cheese? Pile it on! Want it extra spicy? Add more jalapenos! This dish is also a perfect addition for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.
## How to Make Taco Bake Fiesta
Making the Taco Bake Fiesta is as simple as preparing your ingredients and layering them in a baking dish. You cook the beef and mix in other ingredients, then layer with tortilla chips, refried beans, and finish with a gorgeous layer of cheese. Bake until it’s hot and bubbly, then you’re ready to dig in!
## Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 packet taco seasoning mix
– 1 cup salsa
– 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes and green chilies
– 2 cups crushed tortilla chips
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
– 1 cup sour cream
– Sliced jalapenos & chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
## Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Stir in the taco seasoning, salsa, diced tomatoes with green chilies, onion, and green bell pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
4. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the crushed tortilla chips, half of the beef mixture, half of the refried beans, and one-third of the cheese.
5. Repeat the layers and top with the rest of the cheese.
6. Bake in the oven for 25 minutes until it’s heated through and the cheese is melted.
7. Let it cool slightly, then add sour cream evenly over the top.
8. Garnish with jalapenos and cilantro if you’d like.
## How to Serve Taco Bake Fiesta
The Taco Bake Fiesta can be served on its own as a filling and balanced meal. Another good way to serve it is with a dollop of guacamole, a spoonful of sour cream, or a handful of fresh salad on the side.
## How to Store Taco Bake Fiesta
Leftover Taco Bake Fiesta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or oven until it’s heated through.
## Tips to Make Taco Bake Fiesta
– Use a pre-heated oven to ensure that the Taco Bake Fiesta cooks evenly.
– Use taco seasoning to taste. You can add more or less depending on how spicy you like your food.
– Fresh ingredients always guarantee the best flavor, so use fresh vegetables whenever possible.
## FAQ
1. **Can I use ground chicken instead of ground beef?**
Yes, you can substitute ground chicken or turkey for the ground beef. It may alter the taste slightly, but it will still be delicious.
2. **Can I make it ahead of time?**
Yes, you can prepare the Taco Bake Fiesta ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake and serve it.
3. **Can I freeze the Taco Bake Fiesta?**
Yes, you can freeze it for up to a month. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.