Layered Beef & Cheese Taco

Layered Beef & Cheese Taco is a hearty and flavorful dish made by layering seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, fresh vegetables, and crunchy tortilla chips. It brings together the best elements of a taco in a festive and shareable format perfect for parties, game nights, or casual family meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. It combines rich, spiced beef with melted cheese and fresh toppings like tomatoes, avocado, and onion. Each layer adds texture and flavor, offering a balanced bite every time. It’s quick to assemble, endlessly customizable, and visually stunning, making it ideal for entertaining or indulgent weeknight dinners.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Taco seasoning
• Cheddar cheese, shredded
• Tortilla chips
• Corn kernels (canned or fresh)
• Red onion, diced
• Avocados, sliced
• Tomatoes, chopped
• Sour cream (optional)
• Cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges (optional for serving)

directions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Add taco seasoning and a splash of water, then simmer for 5–7 minutes until well combined.
3. Arrange a layer of tortilla chips on a large serving platter or dish.
4. Spoon the seasoned beef evenly over the chips.
5. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese and optionally microwave or bake for a few minutes to melt.
6. Add a layer of corn, diced red onion, chopped tomatoes, and avocado slices.
7. Top with sour cream and chopped cilantro.
8. Serve immediately with lime wedges if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6–8 people as an appetizer or 4 as a main dish. It takes approximately 25 minutes from start to finish.

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute beef with seasoned black beans or lentils.
• Spicy Option: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
• Cheese Blend: Use a mix of Monterey Jack, mozzarella, and cheddar for variety.
• Mini Individual Servings: Assemble in small bowls or ramekins for single-serve portions.
• Low-Carb Version: Serve over lettuce instead of tortilla chips.

storage/reheating

This dish is best served immediately, as the chips can become soggy over time. If you plan for leftovers, store the ingredients separately. Cooked beef can be refrigerated for up to 4 days and reheated in a skillet or microwave. Avoid freezing assembled taco layers.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can cook the beef and prep the toppings ahead, but assemble just before serving for best texture.

What chips work best for this recipe?

Thick, restaurant-style tortilla chips hold up best under the weight of the toppings.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works well with taco seasoning.

Is there a way to keep the chips from getting soggy?

Serve toppings on the side or layer just before serving to preserve crunch.

Can I add lettuce to this recipe?

Yes, shredded romaine or iceberg lettuce adds freshness and crunch.

How spicy is this dish?

It depends on your taco seasoning. Use mild, medium, or spicy blends as preferred.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend melts well and adds rich flavor.

Can this be served cold?

While it’s best warm, the layered ingredients can be served chilled like a taco salad.

Can I use store-bought taco seasoning?

Yes, or you can make your own using chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and oregano.

Can this be served as a dip?

Yes, reduce the chips and serve the layers in a baking dish with tortilla chips on the side for dipping.

Conclusion

Layered Beef & Cheese Taco is a festive, flavorful dish that brings all the beloved taco elements into one irresistible platter. With bold, seasoned meat, melty cheese, and crisp fresh toppings, it’s a perfect solution for casual gatherings or weeknight cravings. Easy to customize and sure to please, this recipe is a staple for taco lovers.

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