Beef Taco Casserole with Biscuit Topping Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for something cozy, flavorful, and a bit unexpected, I’ve got the perfect dinner for you: Beef Taco Casserole with Biscuit Topping Recipe. It’s like all your favorite taco flavors rolled into a warm, cheesy casserole with a golden biscuit crust that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. Seriously, when I first tried this, I didn’t expect to fall in love quite this hard—so stick around, and I’ll walk you through every delicious detail.

❤️

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Flavor-packed comfort food: Every bite bursts with classic taco seasoning, melted cheese, and tangy sour cream layers that cozy right under a biscuit blanket.
  • Simple and approachable: You don’t need to be a kitchen wizard—this recipe comes together quickly with easy ingredients.
  • Hands-on fun with biscuit dough: Pressing and pre-baking that biscuit topping is super satisfying, and it turns gorgeously golden in the oven.
  • Crowd-pleaser every time: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or casual get-together, my family goes crazy for this hearty dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Beef Taco Casserole with Biscuit Topping Recipe lies in how simple ingredients combine to create such a layered, flavorful dinner. You likely already have most of them on hand, and if you don’t, the grocery store won’t break the bank.

Flat lay of fresh lean ground beef in a small mound, one whole red bell pepper, one whole yellow onion, a small white bowl of finely diced green chiles, a small white bowl of mild salsa, a small white bowl with pale yellow biscuit mix powder, a small white bowl of water, a small white bowl of sour cream, a small white bowl of creamy mayonnaise, a small white bowl of golden shredded cheddar cheese fiesta blend, and a small white bowl of light brown taco seasoning powder, arranged in perfect symmetry on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997 - Beef Taco Casserole with Biscuit Topping, taco casserole, beef taco bake, cheesy taco casserole, easy taco dinner ideas
  • Lean Ground Beef: I prefer lean for less grease, but you can tone up the richness if you like your beef a bit fattier.
  • Red Bell Pepper: Adds sweetness and a nice pop of color—feel free to swap with green for a sharper bite.
  • Yellow Onion: A classic base in almost any taco meat blend to add sweetness and depth.
  • Taco Seasoning Mix: The star spice blend — store-bought works great, or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous.
  • Biscuit Mix (like Bisquick): This shortcut biscuit dough saves time and bakes up perfectly golden and fluffy.
  • Water: To bring the biscuit mix together into a soft dough.
  • Cooking Spray: Essential to prevent sticking and help the biscuit crust brown beautifully.
  • Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and tang to balance the spices.
  • Mayonnaise: You might be surprised, but it lends richness and smooth texture to the creamy layer.
  • Diced Green Chiles: A mild kick of heat and a lovely Southwestern touch.
  • Cheddar Cheese, Fiesta Blend: Sharp, melty, and colorful—perfect for topping and layering inside.
  • Garlic Powder: For that subtle aromatic pop without overpowering the dish.
  • Salsa (mild): Adds freshness and a little zing; don’t worry about spreading it out—dollops are ideal!
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

One of my favorite things about this Beef Taco Casserole with Biscuit Topping Recipe is how easy it is to tweak based on what you love or what you have on hand. I often switch things up depending on the season or who’s coming to dinner.

  • Spicy Upgrade: I’ve added diced jalapeños or swapped mild salsa for a chipotle version, and it adds just the right amount of heat to wake up the flavors.
  • Cheese Swap: Playing with different cheese blends like pepper jack or mozzarella can change the mood—sometimes extra melty mozzarella wins the kids over.
  • Vegetable Boost: I like tossing in black beans, corn, or even zucchini when I want to sneak in some extra veggies without changing the vibe too much.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free biscuit mix and taco seasoning labeled gluten-free, and you’re good to go.

How to Make Beef Taco Casserole with Biscuit Topping Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef Just Right

Start by heating your skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the lean ground beef and break it up with your spoon or spatula. You’ll want to cook it until no pink remains—usually about 6-8 minutes—but keep a good eye on it and stir occasionally so it cooks evenly. Once it’s nicely browned, drain any excess fat. This step sets the foundation for a juicy, flavorful filling, so don’t rush it!

Step 2: Get That Biscuit Dough Ready

In a medium bowl, mix your biscuit mix with water. I like to use my hands here to get everything combined evenly—the dough should be soft but not sticky. Spray your 9×13 casserole dish liberally with cooking spray, then press the dough evenly into the dish all the way to the edges. Pop it into your preheated oven (350°F) for about 5-8 minutes. The biscuit crust should just set and turn lightly golden—don’t worry, it finishes baking later.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies and Season

After your beef has cooked and drained, add the chopped yellow onion and red bell pepper right into the skillet. Sauté everything together for around 4 minutes until the veggies soften and the onions turn translucent. Sprinkle the taco seasoning mix over everything, stir to blend the spices evenly, then remove from heat. This mix of seasoned meat and veggies is what makes your casserole sing.

Step 4: Layer with Care

Spread your savory beef and veggie mixture evenly over the pre-baked biscuit base. Now, in another bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, drained green chiles, ¾ cup shredded cheese, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth, then spread this creamy layer evenly over the ground beef. This cool, creamy layer offsets the spices beautifully and keeps every bite moist and luscious.

Step 5: Salsa and Cheese Finish

Drop small spoonfuls of mild salsa across the sour cream layer—you want those bursts of freshness without mixing them all in. Then, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly on top. This final cheesy layer will melt into a gorgeous golden crust during baking.

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly

Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, and bake for 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are bubbly, the cheese is melted and slightly browned, and the biscuit topping looks golden and inviting. Let it rest for a few minutes before digging in to help it set up—plus, it’s really hot straight from the oven!

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Pro Tips for Making Beef Taco Casserole with Biscuit Topping Recipe

  • Don’t Skip Pre-Baking the Biscuit Layer: This ensures a sturdy crust that doesn’t get soggy under the filling.
  • Drain the Beef Well: Extra grease can drown the biscuit crust, so don’t be shy about draining—your casserole will thank you.
  • Use a Light Hand with Salsa: Dollops work better than spreading—this way the salsa stays bright and doesn’t make the topping too wet.
  • Let It Rest Before Serving: Patience helps the layers set up, making slices cleaner and eating less messy.

How to Serve Beef Taco Casserole with Biscuit Topping Recipe

A thick square piece of lasagna with four visible layers sits on a dark plate against a black background. The bottom layer is creamy with melted cheese, followed by a layer of browned ground meat mixed with cheese. Above it is another creamy melted cheese layer mixed with meat, topped by a thick layer of melted yellow and white cheese that stretches in strings above the lasagna. Small green herb pieces are sprinkled on top, and some melted cheese drips down the sides, creating a rich and gooey appearance. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Beef Taco Casserole with Biscuit Topping, taco casserole, beef taco bake, cheesy taco casserole, easy taco dinner ideas

Garnishes

I usually pile on chopped fresh cilantro and sliced green onions over the top—that fresh herbiness brightens up every bite. A dollop of additional sour cream or guacamole on the side is a nice creamy balance, and sometimes a squeeze of lime really wakes up the flavors even more.

Side Dishes

I love pairing this casserole with simple sides like a crisp Mexican-style street corn salad or a light green salad with citrus vinaigrette. Black beans or a small scoop of Spanish rice round out the meal, but honestly, with this casserole, you might not need much else.

Creative Ways to Present

For family gatherings, I’ve served this casserole in individual ramekins with the biscuit topping sprinkled with extra cheese for a personal melt-in-your-mouth experience. Another time, I added layered avocado slices on top just before serving for an elevated look and buttery texture that wowed my guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of Beef Taco Casserole with Biscuit Topping Recipe store beautifully in the fridge—just cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap. I find it stays fresh and flavorful for about 3-4 days, perfect for quick lunches or second-night dinners.

Freezing

I often double the recipe and freeze half before baking. I assemble everything in a freezer-safe dish, wrap it well, and freeze for up to 2 months. When I want it, I thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as usual adding a few extra minutes if needed.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop individual portions in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes. This brings back the crisp on the biscuit topping better than the microwave, which I usually use only for speedy reheats when I’m in a hurry (though it can make the biscuit a bit softer).

FAQs

  1. Can I make this Beef Taco Casserole with Biscuit Topping Recipe vegetarian?

    Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for seasoned black beans or a meat substitute like plant-based crumbles. You can also add extra veggies like mushrooms or zucchini to keep it hearty and delicious.

  2. What if I don’t have biscuit mix on hand?

    You can make your own biscuit dough from scratch using flour, baking powder, salt, butter, and milk, but biscuit mix definitely speeds up the process and gives that classic flaky texture easily.

  3. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time fully assembled?

    Yes! You can assemble the entire casserole and refrigerate it covered overnight before baking it the next day. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time to ensure it’s thoroughly heated through.

  4. Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?

    Definitely! Add diced jalapeños or a spicy salsa variant, or increase the amount of taco seasoning if you like things with a bit more kick. Just balance the heat with the sour cream layer to keep it creamy and approachable.

Final Thoughts

This Beef Taco Casserole with Biscuit Topping Recipe has become a real favorite in my house because it’s the perfect way to mix up taco night with something both comforting and a little unexpected. I love how the biscuit topping adds a flaky, buttery crust that holds all those layered flavors together. Give it a try—you might find it becomes your new go-to when you want something hearty, easy, and utterly satisfying. Trust me, your family will thank you!

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Beef Taco Casserole with Biscuit Topping Recipe

Beef Taco Casserole with Biscuit Topping Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 198 reviews
  • Author: Jessica
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Cattle Drive Casserole is a hearty and flavorful layered dish featuring seasoned ground beef, vegetables, a biscuit base, and a creamy cheesy topping. This easy-to-make casserole combines taco flavors with comforting textures, perfect for a family dinner or potluck.


Ingredients

Meat and Vegetables

  • 1.5 pounds Lean Ground Beef
  • 1 Red Bell Pepper, seeded and chopped
  • 1 Yellow Onion, chopped
  • 1 ounce Taco Seasoning Mix

Biscuit Base

  • 2 ½ cups Biscuit Mix (like Bisquick)
  • 1 cup Water
  • Cooking Spray (like Pam)

Sour Cream Layer

  • ½ cup Sour Cream
  • ½ cup Mayonnaise
  • 4 ounces Diced Green Chiles, drained
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • ¾ cup Cheddar Cheese, Fiesta Blend, shredded (part of 1 ½ cups total)

Topping

  • ½ cup Salsa, mild
  • ¾ cup Cheddar Cheese, Fiesta Blend, shredded (remaining part of 1 ½ cups total)


Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350℉ (175℃) to prepare for baking the biscuit base and casserole.
  2. Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart using a spoon. Cook until it’s no longer pink, stirring occasionally. Drain off any excess fat. While the beef cooks, you can prepare the biscuit dough.
  3. Prepare the Biscuit Dough: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the biscuit mix and water. Stir well, preferably using your hands for thorough mixing. Spray a 9×13″ casserole dish with cooking spray. Press the biscuit dough evenly into the dish spreading it out to the edges. Bake in the preheated oven for 5-8 minutes until set and lightly golden. Remove and keep the oven on.
  4. Cook the Vegetables: To the skillet with cooked ground beef, add the chopped onions and red bell pepper. Stir and cook for about 4 minutes until softened. Add the taco seasoning mix and blend thoroughly. Remove from heat.
  5. Assemble the Layers: Evenly spread the cooked beef and vegetable mixture over the baked biscuit base in the casserole dish.
  6. Prepare the Sour Cream Layer: In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, drained diced green chiles, ¾ cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth and creamy. Carefully spread this mixture evenly over the ground beef layer.
  7. Add Salsa and Cheese: Drop small spoonfuls of mild salsa over the sour cream layer; there is no need to spread it out. Sprinkle the remaining ¾ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
  8. Bake: Return the casserole to the oven uncovered and bake for 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly throughout. Once done, remove from the oven and serve warm.

Notes

  • You can substitute the biscuit mix with homemade biscuit dough if preferred.
  • Use a fiesta blend cheese for a mix of flavors and colorful appearance.
  • If you like spice, consider using medium or hot salsa instead of mild.
  • Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking for easier slicing and serving.
  • This casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/8 casserole
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

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