Get ready to revolutionize your dinner routine with the most mouthwatering Gluten Free Veggie Loaded Taco Casserole that will have your family begging for seconds! This incredible dish combines the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine with a healthy, gluten-free twist that's both incredibly satisfying and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you're dealing with dietary restrictions or simply craving a delicious one-pan meal, this recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 cup corn
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's hot and ready for the casserole.
- In a large skillet, over medium heat, add the ground beef or turkey. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the meat. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, ensuring that the meat and vegetables are evenly coated. Cook for an additional minute to allow the spices to bloom.
- Add the drained black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the skillet. Mix everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- While the mixture is simmering, prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Transfer the meat and veggie mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- If using, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole for a delicious cheesy layer.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from burning and to keep the casserole moist.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. If you used cheese, remove the foil in the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to melt and become bubbly.
- Once cooked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help it set up a bit.
- Serve warm, garnished with your favorite toppings such as avocado, sour cream, salsa, or fresh cilantro if desired.
Tips
- Meat Matters: For the best flavor, use fresh ground beef or turkey with a slightly higher fat content (80/20 works great) to keep the casserole moist and flavorful.
- Customize Your Spice: If you like it hot, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to kick up the heat.
- Cheese Options: For a dairy-free version, try nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternatives to keep it gluten-free and allergy-friendly.
- Prep Ahead: This casserole can be assembled earlier in the day and refrigerated, then baked when you're ready to eat. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
- Veggie Variations: Feel free to swap in different vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms to keep things interesting and use up what you have in the fridge.
- Make It a Complete Meal: Serve with a side of cauliflower rice, mixed green salad, or gluten-free tortilla chips for added texture and nutrition.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 75mg
