Beef Taco Casserole with Biscuit Topping Recipe

If you’re anything like me, you can’t resist a dish that marries comfort food with a little fiesta flair. That’s why this Beef Taco Casserole with Biscuit Topping Recipe quickly became my go-to weeknight winner. Think layers of savory ground beef seasoned just right, topped with a creamy, cheesy mixture, all baked over a fluffy biscuit crust. It’s one of those dishes that’s cozy enough to feel like a hug and exciting enough to keep your taste buds guessing. Stick with me and I’ll walk you through everything to make this fan-freaking-tastic casserole the star of your dinner table.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make: You’ll find that prepping the layers is straightforward, even on a busy day.
  • Family-Friendly Flavor: The mild salsa and creamy topping mean everyone, kids included, will ask for seconds.
  • One-Dish Wonder: This casserole handles protein, veggies, and carbs all in one pan—hello, fewer dishes!
  • Comfort Meets Fun: The biscuit topping adds a delightful twist to a classic taco casserole, making it extra special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together perfectly for a balanced casserole with layers of texture and flavor. When you shop, look for a good-quality biscuit mix and fresh veggies to elevate the dish without adding fuss.

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 casserole recipes, easy taco casserole, cheesy beef bake
  • Lean Ground Beef: I prefer 90% lean—it’s juicy but not greasy, which keeps the casserole from being too heavy.
  • Red Bell Pepper: Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color; you can swap for green if you prefer a bit more bite.
  • Yellow Onion: Gives that familiar savory base that complements the beef and spices wonderfully.
  • Taco Seasoning Mix: Store-bought works fine, but I’ve made my own blend to control the spice level.
  • Biscuit Mix (like Bisquick): This shortcut makes the biscuit topping easy and light without needing yeast or extra steps.
  • Water: For the biscuit dough—simple, but important to get the right consistency.
  • Cooking Spray (like Pam): Prevents sticking while keeping the casserole crispy on the edges.
  • Sour Cream: Adds creamy tang to the middle layer, balancing the spices.
  • Mayonnaise: Helps create a luscious texture in the creamy layer without overpowering the flavors.
  • Diced Green Chiles: For a subtle kick—I love the way they add depth without heat.
  • Cheddar Cheese, Fiesta Blend: Sharp cheddar with Monterey jack makes the cheese layer melty and flavorful.
  • Garlic Powder: A little extra oomph that brings all the layers together.
  • Mild Salsa: Adds freshness and a bit of moisture—no need to spread it all over, just a few dollops do the trick.
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

I love playing around with this Beef Taco Casserole with Biscuit Topping Recipe because it’s so versatile. You can tweak it to suit your family’s tastes or dietary needs without losing that comforting vibe.

  • Spicy Kick: Adding chopped jalapeños or using a hotter salsa really jazzes it up—I tested this once at a taco party, and it was a huge hit!
  • Vegetarian Option: Swap ground beef for seasoned black beans or lentils to keep the texture hearty and protein-rich.
  • Cheese Swaps: Try pepper jack or a blend with smoked gouda for a smoky twist.
  • Gluten-Free: I’ve used gluten-free baking mixes for the biscuit topping; just be sure they rise well to keep that fluffy texture.

How to Make Beef Taco Casserole with Biscuit Topping Recipe

Step 1: Get Your Oven and Skillet Ready

Start by preheating your oven to 350℉. Then, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat to brown the ground beef. Breaking the meat apart with your spoon helps it cook evenly. Cook it until it’s just no longer pink—usually about 5-7 minutes—and be sure to drain off excess fat so the casserole isn’t greasy. I like to start the biscuit dough while the meat cooks to save time.

Step 2: Whip Up That Biscuit Topping

In a medium bowl, mix the biscuit mix with water. I like to get my hands in there to make sure it’s combined well—that way your topping is light and tender. Spray your 9×13″ casserole dish with cooking spray, then press the dough evenly across the bottom. Pop it in the oven for 5-8 minutes until it’s just set and turning golden. Keep the oven on for later—you’re going to bake this baby again!

Step 3: Sauté Your Veggies and Add the Seasoning

Once your meat is browned and drained, toss in the chopped onion and red bell pepper. I usually cook this for about 4 minutes until the veggies soften and the onions are translucent. Then sprinkle in the taco seasoning mix and stir everything together. Take the skillet off the heat; you want all those flavors mingling before assembling the layers.

Step 4: Layer It Up

Spread that delicious beef and veggie mixture evenly over your partially baked biscuit crust. Then, in a separate bowl, mix the sour cream, mayonnaise, diced green chiles, ¾ cup shredded cheese, and garlic powder until smooth. Carefully spoon this creamy layer over the meat—you really want full coverage so every bite has that rich, cheesy goodness.

Step 5: The Finishing Touches and Bake

Drop small spoonfuls of salsa across the sour cream layer—you don’t need to spread it all out. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly on top, covering the casserole in a cheesy blanket. Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes, until everything is hot, bubbly, and that biscuit topping edges just start to brown. You’ll want to let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

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Pro Tips for Making Beef Taco Casserole with Biscuit Topping Recipe

  • Don’t Overmix Biscuit Dough: Mixing just until combined keeps the topping tender and flaky instead of dense.
  • Drain Excess Beef Fat: I learned this makes the casserole less greasy and lets the other flavors shine.
  • Use Residual Oven Heat: Keeping the oven on while assembling helps the casserole bake evenly without waiting for reheating.
  • Let It Rest Before Serving: This is key for the layers to set and slice cleanly without falling apart.

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 casserole recipes, easy taco casserole, cheesy beef bake

Garnishes

I absolutely love topping mine with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice—it brightens each bite. Add a dollop of extra sour cream or a few slices of avocado for creaminess and color. Sometimes, I’ll sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top for a satisfying crunch that complements the biscuit crust nicely.

Side Dishes

My go-to sides are simple: a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or Mexican-style street corn if I’m feeling indulgent. You could also serve it alongside some black beans or cilantro lime rice for a complete taco night vibe.

Creative Ways to Present

For family gatherings or casual parties, I’ve served this casserole in individual ramekins topped with mini tortilla chips and a tiny sprig of cilantro—it feels festive and is super easy to portion out. Another fun idea I’ve tried is layering the casserole in a clear glass dish so guests can see the beautiful layers before digging in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After the casserole cools, I cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. It typically keeps well for up to four days, and the flavors actually deepen overnight—making it even tastier the next day.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this casserole a couple of times with great results. Just assemble everything except baking, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake from frozen at 350℉, adding an extra 15-20 minutes until it’s heated through and bubbly.

Reheating

I reheat leftovers in the oven at 350℉ to keep the biscuit topping crisp. If you’re in a hurry, a microwave works fine but expect the biscuit to soften a bit. Cover loosely with foil to prevent drying out and heat until just warmed through.

FAQs

  1. Can I make the biscuit topping from scratch instead of using a mix?

    Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use your favorite homemade biscuit dough recipe. Just keep in mind the baking time might vary slightly. The important part is getting a light, fluffy crust that bakes fully before adding the other layers.

  2. Is this Beef Taco Casserole with Biscuit Topping Recipe gluten-free?

    The original recipe isn’t gluten-free due to the biscuit mix. However, many gluten-free biscuit mixes are available and work well as a substitute. Just make sure the mix you use rises properly to maintain that fluffy texture.

  3. Can I prepare this casserole a day ahead?

    Yes! You can assemble everything except the final baking step, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. When ready, bake the casserole as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed for thorough heating.

  4. What can I use instead of green chiles?

    If you don’t have green chiles on hand, mild diced poblano peppers or even finely chopped mild pickled jalapeños can add a similar flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

I can’t tell you how many times the Beef Taco Casserole with Biscuit Topping Recipe has been my dinner lifesaver—whether it’s a last-minute family meal or something I want to bring to a potluck that’ll impress with minimal effort. The layers of flavor and that tender biscuit crust make it feel special, but it’s so easy to pull together. If you’re craving classic taco flavors but want a comforting casserole twist, this recipe really hits the spot. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll be one of those dinners you’ll keep coming back to—and sharing with friends too.

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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 4.6 from 92 reviews
  • Author: Hannah
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Cattle Drive Casserole is a hearty, layered dish featuring seasoned ground beef, a biscuit crust, and a creamy, cheesy topping with green chiles and salsa. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, it combines savory taco flavors with a soft biscuit base, baked to golden perfection.


Ingredients

Scale

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 Layer

  • 2 ½ cups Biscuit Mix (such as Bisquick)
  • 1 cup Water
  • Cooking Spray (e.g., Pam)

Sour Cream Layer

  • ½ cup Sour Cream
  • ½ cup Mayonnaise
  • 4 ounces Diced Green Chiles, drained
  • 1 ½ cups Cheddar Cheese, Fiesta Blend, shredded, divided
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder

Additional Toppings

  • ½ cup Salsa, mild

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F to prepare it for baking the biscuit base and later the casserole layers.
  2. Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is no longer pink, stirring occasionally. Drain any excess fat from the pan. While the beef cooks, you can start preparing the biscuit dough.
  3. Prepare the Biscuit Dough: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the biscuit mix and water. Stir until well mixed, ideally using your hands for thorough blending to form a dough. Spray a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray, then press the biscuit dough evenly into the dish, spreading it out to the edges. Bake in the preheated oven for 5 to 8 minutes, until the dough is set and lightly golden. Remove the dish from the oven but keep the oven on.
  4. Cook the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper to the cooked ground beef in the skillet. Stir and cook for about 4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened. Add the taco seasoning to the mixture and mix well. Remove the skillet from heat.
  5. Assemble the Layers: Evenly spread the cooked ground beef and vegetable mixture over the baked biscuit crust 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 the shredded cheese, and garlic powder. Stir until the mixture is smooth. Carefully spread this creamy mixture over the ground beef layer in the casserole dish.
  7. Add Salsa and Cheese: Spoon small dollops of mild salsa over the sour cream layer without spreading it out evenly. Then sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese (¾ cup) evenly on top of the casserole.
  8. Bake: Place the assembled casserole back into the oven uncovered. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot throughout and bubbling, and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.

Notes

  • You can substitute the taco seasoning with your preferred brand or homemade blend for customized flavor.
  • Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to set and make serving easier.
  • For a spicier casserole, use medium or hot salsa and add extra diced green chiles.
  • If you prefer a crispier biscuit crust, slightly extend the initial baking time of the biscuit layer before adding the toppings.
  • This casserole pairs well with a side of simple salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of casserole)
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

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