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Mexican Ground Turkey Taco Casserole Recipe

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4.2 from 67 reviews

This Mexican Ground Turkey Taco Casserole is a flavorful, layered baked dish featuring lean ground turkey cooked with taco seasoning and sauce, creamy refried beans, crispy corn tortillas, diced bell peppers, and a melty Mexican cheese blend. Baked to golden perfection and topped with fresh, customizable toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, olives, jalapeños, and sour cream, it offers a delicious and hearty twist on traditional tacos, perfect for family dinners or entertaining.

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

  • 2.5 tsp olive oil
  • 2 lb ground turkey (preferably lean, such as Jennie-O)
  • 32 oz refried beans (Rosarita recommended for creamy texture)
  • 1 cup taco sauce
  • 3.5 tbsp taco seasoning
  • 12 corn tortillas, cut into 1-inch strips
  • 3.5 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
  • 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (any color)

For the Toppings (Optional):

  • Corn chips (Fritos recommended for crunch)
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Sliced black olives
  • Chopped green onions
  • Sour cream
  • Avocado slices
  • Diced red onion
  • Shredded lettuce (thin ribbons)
  • Salsa
  • Diced red bell pepper
  • Sliced jalapeños
  • Chopped bell peppers
  • Fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a portion of the olive oil. Cut the corn tortillas into 1-inch strips and dice the bell peppers evenly. Measure out the taco seasoning to have it ready for cooking.
  2. Cook the Ground Turkey: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the remaining olive oil. When shimmering, add the ground turkey and cook for 8-10 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until browned and cooked through with some golden edges. Stir in the taco seasoning and taco sauce, mixing thoroughly, and cook for another 2-3 minutes to blend flavors.
  3. Warm the Refried Beans: In a small saucepan, combine the refried beans with 1/4 cup water. Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently for 3-4 minutes until smooth and spreadable. The water loosens the beans for even layering.
  4. Assemble the Casserole Layers: Spread a thin layer of the warmed refried beans evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Lay half the tortilla strips over the beans, overlapping slightly. Add half the cooked turkey mixture on top, then sprinkle half the diced bell peppers. Layer half the remaining refried beans over the peppers, followed by 1.75 cups of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining tortillas, turkey, bell peppers, beans, and finish with the final 1.75 cups of cheese on top.
  5. Bake the Casserole: Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes. Bake until the cheese is melted, slightly golden, and the filling bubbles at the edges. Check around 30 minutes to avoid overbaking. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes to set the layers before serving.
  6. Add Toppings and Serve: Top the warm casserole with your choice of fresh toppings just before serving. Popular options include shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, diced red onion, sliced jalapeños, and cilantro. Serve with dollops of sour cream, fresh avocado slices, salsa on the side, and corn chips for added texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Use lean ground turkey like Jennie-O for a healthier option and better flavor.
  • Rosarita brand refried beans provide a creamy texture ideal for casseroles.
  • Cutting corn tortillas into strips helps with even layering and better texture.
  • Adjust taco seasoning amount to taste, especially if you prefer less sodium or spice.
  • Resting the casserole after baking helps it hold together when sliced.
  • Customize toppings based on your preference to add freshness and crunch.
  • If you want it spicier, add extra jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
  • Author: Adeline
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Find it online: https://flavorhug.com/mexican-ground-turkey-taco-casserole-recipe/