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Why This Recipe Stands Out
We’re all about quick, easy, and delicious meals, and this 30 minute taco casserole is a perfect example. Here’s why we love this recipe:- Quick: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight, just like our other tasty 30-minute meals.
- Healthy: With lean ground beef, brown rice, low fat cheese, and fat-free refried beans, this taco casserole is a meal you can feel good about serving like you would serving this Healthy Chicken Chili.
- Flavor-packed: Despite its healthy ingredients, this recipe doesn’t sacrifice flavor. It’s absolutely indulgent.
- Easy to make: With simple layer and bake steps, this recipe is a cinch to put together like our Easy Enchilada Casserole.
- Satisfying: Despite being healthy, this casserole is hearty and filling, ensuring you won’t be left hungry after dinner.
Key Recipe Ingredients
- Brown Rice—The base of our dish, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and a hearty texture. You can also use white rice if you prefer.
- Lean Ground Beef—We use 93 percent lean ground beef to keep the dish protein-rich and low in fat.
- Taco Seasoning—The key to the flavor profile of this dish, taco seasonings add a spicy kick. We use a homemade blend, but store-bought works just as well.
- Fat-Free Refried Beans—These beans add a creamy texture and a rich, savory flavor to the dish.
- Low-Fat Sharp Cheddar—This cheese melts beautifully and adds a tangy, creamy element to the dish.
Substitutions and Variations
Feel free to try switch things up according to what you have in your kitchen:- Rice: You can easily substitute brown rice with white rice or even quinoa for a protein-packed twist.
- Protein: Try using ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute. The taco seasoning will still give it that delicious, spicy kick as it does in our Mexican Pasta Bake.
- Cheese: If you’re looking for a sharper flavor, try using pepper jack or even a spicy habanero cheddar. Mexican blend shredded cheese also works well.
- Spice: If you like your food extra spicy, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or using a hot salsa.
- Garnishes: Try diced bell peppers, jalapeños, or sweet corn kernels would add a nice crunch. Diced avocado and lime slices work well, too.
- Corn Chips: For an even healthier version, you can omit the corn chips and cheese. But if you’re a fan of a little extra crunch, try using tortilla chips or Fritos.
Step-By-Step Recipe Instructions
Brown the ground beef in a large nonstick skillet with taco seasoning and water. Set aside when fully cooked.
Courtesy of Amy Dong
