Beef & Bean Taco Casserole

I just LOVE dinners like this one!

Where there are only a few steps and it doesn't take all night to put together!

 I guess that's the beauty of a casserole and I appreciate it very much. 

I also had all the ingredients on hand, so you probably will too! 

I found this recipe on Pinterest {Love it} and it comes from Recipe.com which is such a great website! 

This is a really fun way to enjoy a taco without eating a boring old taco. I also added avocado and used a orange bell pepper to give it a little sweet note. The beauty of this recipe is that you can use as many vegetables as you'd like! 

You just might need a larger dish :)

Here are all the ingredients you'll be needing.

Layering the ingredients in the dish.

Final product. YUM! 

Beef & Bean Taco Casserole

Ingredients:

1 pound Lean Ground Beef

1 can (16 oz.) Vegetarian Refried Beans

2 Cups Salsa

1 package Taco Seasoning (or to taste)

1/2 medium Bell Pepper, Chopped (3/4 cup)

4 medium Green Onions, chopped (1/4 cup)

1 medium fresh tomato

1 can(15 oz.) Petite Diced tomatoes

1 Cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese

1 can (15 oz.) Olives, sliced

1 Cup shredded lettuce

1 medium-large Avocado

Tortilla Chips, coarsley broken (optional)

Directions:

1. Heat oven to 350 degrees F. In a skillet, cook beef over medium-high heat 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thoroughly cooked, drain. Stir in refried beans, salsa, and taco seasoning. reduce heat to medium. Heat through, stirring occasionally.

2. In an ungreased 2 quart casserole dish, spread beef mixture. Sprinkle with bell pepper, onions, canned petite diced tomatoes, cheese and olives.

3. Bake uncovered for 20-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly and cheese is melted. Top baked casserole with lettuce, chopped fresh tomato and avocado. Optional: Top with broken tortilla chips.

Enjoy!