Ground Turkey Taco Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ground Turkey Taco Casserole is a hearty, family-friendly dish that layers all the flavors of your favorite tacos into one easy-to-make bake. Made with lean ground turkey, beans, corn, tortillas, and melty cheese, it’s a comforting, protein-packed dinner perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable and full of zesty Tex-Mex flavor.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground turkeyoniongarlictaco seasoningdiced tomatoes with green chiliesblack beanscornflour tortillasshredded cheddar cheesesour creamolive oilsalt and pepper

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and sauté the diced onion until soft, about 3-4 minutes.

Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Stir in the ground turkey, breaking it up as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.

Add taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, and corn. Stir to combine and simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cut flour tortillas into quarters or strips.

Layer half of the tortillas on the bottom of the baking dish.

Spoon half of the turkey mixture over the tortillas, then spread a layer of sour cream and sprinkle with cheese.

Repeat layers with remaining tortillas, turkey mixture, sour cream, and top with cheese.

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6-8 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 30 minutesResting time: 5-10 minutesTotal time: 50-55 minutes

Variations

Swap ground turkey for ground beef or shredded rotisserie chicken.

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter option.

Add jalapeños or hot sauce for extra spice.

Layer in sautéed bell peppers or zucchini for added veggies.

Top with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or crushed tortilla chips before serving.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.You can also freeze this casserole before or after baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as desired.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and bake when ready.

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Yes, but the texture will be slightly different—more rustic and chewy.

Is this casserole spicy?

It depends on the taco seasoning and tomatoes used—choose mild or hot based on your preference.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cheese and a plant-based sour cream substitute.

What sides go well with this casserole?

Serve with a simple green salad, Spanish rice, or chips and salsa.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely, just use a larger baking dish or two pans.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

Use gluten-free tortillas and double-check your taco seasoning and other ingredients.

What cheese works best?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend melt beautifully and add great flavor.

Can I add rice to the casserole?

Yes, stir in 1 to 1½ cups of cooked rice with the turkey mixture.

Can kids eat this?

Definitely—just keep the spice level mild and let them add toppings they enjoy.

Conclusion

Ground Turkey Taco Casserole is an easy, flavorful dinner that brings the best parts of taco night into one delicious bake. With flexible ingredients and a comforting, cheesy finish, it’s a meal everyone at the table will enjoy. Perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or whenever you need a crowd-pleasing dish with minimal cleanup.

Print