Homemade Taco Seasoning & Taco Casserole

I love tacos, but sometimes I have the stuff to enjoy them without the seasoning for the meat itself.  Why let that stop us right? right!  Making our own is the answer...it's fresh and we know exactly what's in there.  So thanks to Google and my powerful ability to type in the words "taco seasoning", I found this recipe which was a good way to start my project for the very first time.





Taco Seasoning
Slightly adapted from Whole New Mom

1 Tbsp chili powder
1 Tbsp Cumin (which is very important!)
2 tsp fresh ground black pepper
1 tsp salt
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tap onion powder
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
1/2 tsp oregano

Mix together and voila! Taco Seasoning : )

This recipe for Taco Casserole comes from my imagination and the knack I have for rummaging in my cupboards for "stuff".  What I had was ground beef that needed to be used...ahhhh, it all starts with something that inspires us right?  Well, before that beef turned to the dark side : ) It had to be used in some sort of concoction...

Alas, Taco Casserole : )

Hearty~Cheesy~Hot & Delicious!

Ingredients:

1lb ground beef

1/2 a small onion, chopped

2-3 teaspoons homemade taco seasoning

1/2 cup tomato sauce

1 can kidney beans

2 cups frozen corn, thawed

5 large tortillas
2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded/grated
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded/grated

How To:

Brown beef with onion, drain well.  Add back to pan and sprinkle taco seasoning over meat, pour in 3/4-1 cup hot water to beef, stir and simmer until water is absorbed.

Mix in kidney beans, tomato sauce, corn and heat on medium till everything is nice and hot.

Spray with cooking spray a round (I used a square dish) pan, place two tortillas on the bottom, layer half the beef mixture on top, add half the cheddar cheese.   Next lay your remaining 3 tortillas, the rest of your beef mixture and finish the top with the second cup of cheddar cheese and mozzarella.

Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for approx. 30 minutes till the cheese has melted.

Slice and Enjoy : )

We enjoyed it with a bit of sour cream and salsa : )  It WAYYYYY exceeded my expectations and he loved it!
Will def. be something we make again : )

Till Next Time, Ciao & Happy Cookin'