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High Protein Ground Beef Taco Casserole - A Filling, Weeknight-Friendly Favorite

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds lean ground beef (90% lean or higher)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup corn kernels (frozen, canned, or fresh)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes, well drained
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (or 3 tablespoons homemade)
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium beef or chicken broth
  • 8 small corn tortillas, cut into strips (or 4 cups lightly crushed baked tortilla chips)
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (2% or nonfat)
  • 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese, blended until smooth
  • 1.5 cups shredded reduced-fat Mexican blend cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional toppings: sliced green onions, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, salsa, lime wedges, pickled jalapeños

Method
 

  1. Prep the oven and pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper with a pinch of salt. Cook 4–5 minutes until softened.
  3. Brown the beef: Add ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and cook until no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  4. Season and simmer: Stir in taco seasoning, broth, corn, black beans, and drained diced tomatoes. Simmer 3–4 minutes to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  5. Blend the creamy layer: In a bowl, whisk Greek yogurt and blended cottage cheese until smooth. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  6. Layer the casserole: Spread half the tortilla strips on the bottom of the baking dish. Spoon half the beef mixture over top. Add half the creamy mixture and 3/4 cup shredded cheese. Repeat the layers.
  7. Bake: Cover loosely with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Uncover and bake another 10–12 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the edges are bubbling.
  8. Rest and garnish: Let the casserole rest 8–10 minutes. Top with green onions, cilantro, or your favorite garnishes. Slice and serve with lime wedges.