This Ground Turkey Taco Casserole recipe quickly became one of my go-to dinners. It’s simple to put together, packs big taco flavor without the mess of assembling tacos, and lets you enjoy a comforting baked dish the whole family loves. If you’re looking to switch up taco night with something hearty and easy, this casserole hits the spot. The ground turkey keeps it lean but tasty, and the layers of cheese, beans, and seasoned veggies come together just right.
I’ve made variations of this casserole for years and love how forgiving it is—perfect if you want to use up leftover ingredients or try new flavors. Plus, it turns a busy weeknight dinner into a relaxed meal you can share with friends. Ground turkey tacos often get overlooked, but baking them as a casserole changes the game completely. A little time in the oven creates a cozy, satisfying dish everyone asks for again and again.
Ingredients for Ground Turkey Taco Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe. I like to keep ingredients clear and straightforward so it’s easier to shop and prep without guessing. All measurements are standard to help you get the right balance every time.
- 1 pound ground turkey, lean
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced into small pieces
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or 2 tablespoons homemade seasoning)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, your choice)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 8 small corn tortillas, cut into strips or quarters
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sliced green onions, sour cream, salsa, avocado slices
Ground Turkey Taco Casserole Recipe with 5 Irresistible Layers
Ground Turkey Taco Casserole Recipe with 5 layers packed with bold flavors to satisfy your hunger and make dinner stressfree and tasty
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
This Ground Turkey Taco Casserole recipe quickly became a go-to dinner. It’s simple to put together, packs big taco flavor without the mess of assembling tacos, and lets you enjoy a comforting baked dish the whole family loves. Lean ground turkey with layers of cheese, beans, and seasoned veggies make it hearty and tasty.
How to Prepare Ground Turkey Taco Casserole
I’ll walk you step-by-step through preparing this casserole. I keep them easy to follow so the whole cooking experience flows smoothly, whether you’re a beginner or just need a quick reference.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This gets it ready so you can pop the casserole in as soon as it’s assembled.
- Cook the turkey: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until no pink remains, about 6–8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Add taco seasoning: Sprinkle the seasoning over the turkey and stir it in well. Pour in 1/4 cup water, stir, and simmer for 5 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
- Mix in beans, corn, and tomatoes: Stir in black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with chilies. Cook for 2–3 minutes to heat through, then remove from heat.
- Layer the casserole: Spread half the tortilla pieces in the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spoon half the turkey mixture over the tortillas. Sprinkle with half the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Repeat the layers once more – tortillas, turkey mixture, then cheeses on top.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes. You want the cheese melted and bubbly with golden edges. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving—this helps it set up for cleaner slices.
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh cilantro and preferred toppings just before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Ground Turkey Taco Casserole Recipe
- Quick and easy: ready in under an hour from start to finish.
- Lean protein: uses ground turkey for a healthier twist on classic taco flavors.
- Family-friendly: mild but flavorful enough to please kids and adults alike.
- One-dish meal: less mess, simple prep, and great for busy weeknights.
- Flexible ingredients: swap beans, cheese, or veggies to suit your pantry or taste.
- Meal prep friendly: leftovers store well and reheat easily for next-day meals.
Tips for Success with Your Ground Turkey Taco Casserole
- Chop onions finely to help them blend into the dish and soften quickly.
- Use fresh garlic instead of powder for better flavor.
- When cooking ground turkey, don’t rush—breaking it up well ensures even cooking.
- Drain canned ingredients well to avoid a watery casserole.
- Let the casserole rest after baking to set the layers and make portions hold together nicely.
- Adding crisp tortilla strips on top before serving can add a nice texture contrast.
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
If you’re out of something or want a twist on the classic recipe, here are some ideas:
- Ground turkey swap: Use ground chicken or lean ground beef if preferred.
- Taco seasoning: You can make your own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and salt.
- Beans: Pinto beans or kidney beans work too.
- Corn: Fresh, frozen, or canned corn all work; just thaw or drain as needed.
- Cheese: Try a Mexican blend or pepper jack for more kick.
- Tortillas: Flour tortillas can be used, just cut smaller.
- Greens: Add chopped spinach or kale to the turkey mixture for more nutrients.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Allow any leftovers to cool completely before covering tightly and refrigerating.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or until hot.
- For the oven, cover with foil and warm at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes.
- You can freeze the casserole before baking: wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Nutrition Disclaimer
Nutrition information can vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes. This recipe does not include specific nutritional data as it is an estimate. Please consider this when planning dietary needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Turkey Taco Casserole
Can I use ground beef instead of ground turkey in this casserole?
Yes, ground beef works perfectly if you prefer a richer flavor. Choose lean ground beef to keep the dish healthier. Just cook it the same way you would the turkey in the recipe.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the ground turkey for plant-based protein like crumbled tofu, tempeh, or a meat alternative. Just adjust the seasoning and cook similarly for a tasty vegetarian version.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it a few hours ahead or even the night before. Keep it covered in the fridge and bake just before serving. This is a great way to save time on busy days.
What sides go well with Ground Turkey Taco Casserole?
I like serving this with a crisp green salad, simple guacamole, or steamed veggies. A light cilantro-lime rice or tortilla chips make a nice addition as well.
How spicy is this casserole? Can I adjust the heat?
The casserole has a mild to medium spice level, depending on your taco seasoning. To make it milder, use less seasoning or omit the diced tomatoes with chilies. For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.
