Ingredients:

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 4 cups corn chips
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

  1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium high heat. Cook until the meat is no longer pink, then drain the excess fat thoroughly. Note: Leaving too much grease makes the chips soggy.
  2. Stir in the taco seasoning and salsa. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly and smells fragrant.
  3. Turn the heat down to low. Fold in the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
  4. Press half of the corn chips into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Create a solid, edge to edge base.
  5. Spread the beef mixture evenly over the chips. Use a spatula to smooth it out.
  6. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese across the meat.
  7. Finish with the remaining chips, layering them on top of the cheese.
  8. Bake at 190°C (375°F) for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and the top chips are toasted.
  9. Remove from the oven. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. Note: This lets the sauce set so it doesn't run when you scoop it.
  10. Top with shredded lettuce, diced red onion, and chopped cilantro right before serving.