Taco Bake !

If your family enjoys Taco Night, then this bake is definitely a must try. It is quite similar to “Walking Tacos”, however, this is an all in one casserole dish, so a bit easier. My kids LOVED the cheesy layer on this and we all loved adding our favorite taco toppings. You can add salsa, sour cream, tomatoes, onions, avocado, jalapeno, etc.

One food item I always seem to have in my pantry or in my fridge are flour tortillas. They are good for so many things. Tortillas can be made into so many different types of snacks for kids (and grownups). You can cut them up and fry them or bake them. You can make cinnamon chips, quesadillas, tortilla pizzas….The possibilities are endless…and easy on the wallet too.

Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup chopped green pepper
1/2 cup chopped onion
2/3 cup water
1 envelope taco seasoning
1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) Mexican diced tomatoes, undrained
6 flour tortillas (8 inches)
1 can (16 ounces) refried beans
3 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend

Directions
In a large skillet, cook the beef, green pepper and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Add water and taco seasoning; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 2 minutes. Stir in black beans and tomatoes. Simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes.
Place 2 tortillas in a greased 13×9-in. baking dish. Spread with half of the refried beans and half of the beef mixture; sprinkle with 1 cup cheese. Repeat layers. Top with remaining tortillas and cheese.
Cover and bake at 350° for 25-30 minutes or until heated through and cheese is melted.

Test Kitchen Tips
To shave off a few calories, substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef and use reduced-fat cheese.
For a fresh burst of vibrant flavor and color, toss a palmful of minced cilantro or parsley on top of this casserole before serving.
Nutrition Facts
1 piece: 448 calories, 21g fat (11g saturated fat), 69mg cholesterol, 1152mg sodium, 39g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 5g fiber), 25g protein.