Simple Taco Casserole: Your Taco Night Game Changer

Healthy & Flavorful Weight Watchers Taco Casserole: Your New Go-To Low-Point Meal

Taco Casserole holds a special place in American culinary traditions, beautifully blending the vibrant, spicy flavors of Mexican tacos with the comforting, convenient nature of American casserole dishes. It’s a testament to how global cuisines can inspire incredible, family-friendly meals. Our adaptation takes this beloved classic and transforms it into a Weight Watchers-friendly delight, ensuring you can savor all the authentic taco flavors without compromising your health and wellness goals. This recipe is not just about reducing points; it’s about maximizing flavor, nutrition, and satisfaction in every single bite, making healthy eating a truly enjoyable experience.

The traditional Taco Casserole recipe is renowned for its enticing layers of ingredients, meticulously arranged to mirror the experience of your favorite handheld tacos. Typically, it features perfectly seasoned ground beef, infused with a medley of classic taco spices such as earthy cumin, robust chili powder, and pungent garlic. This savory base is often complemented by hearty beans, sweet corn, a generous topping of melted cheese, and, for that irresistible textural contrast, a crunchy layer of crushed tortilla chips. Our Weight Watchers version maintains this delicious layering concept while making smart substitutions to keep it light and wholesome, focusing on fresh, natural ingredients.

Cheesy ground beef taco casserole on a plate, garnished with a lemon wedge and fresh herbs.

Achieving a Weight Watchers-Friendly Transformation for Your Taco Casserole

Turning a hearty classic like Taco Casserole into a Weight Watchers-friendly meal doesn’t mean sacrificing taste or satisfaction. It’s all about making smart, strategic ingredient choices that maintain the delicious flavor profile while significantly reducing calories and fat. The cornerstone of this healthier transformation begins with your choice of protein. We opt for 95% lean ground beef, which contains a mere 5% fat content. This ensures you still enjoy the rich, savory taste and substantial texture of beef, but without the excessive calories and saturated fat found in fattier cuts. Lean beef is a powerhouse of protein, vital for muscle maintenance and promoting satiety, keeping you feeling full and satisfied for longer, which is key for successful weight management.

Beyond the beef, humble yet mighty ingredients like corn and beans play a pivotal role in adding both heartiness and a significant boost of plant-based protein and fiber. These components are not only incredibly filling but also contribute complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. Complex carbohydrates are essential for keeping blood sugar levels stable, preventing energy crashes. You have the flexibility to customize your casserole with your favorite type of beans – whether it’s black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans – ensuring it perfectly aligns with your dietary preferences and Weight Watchers plan. Each variety offers its unique texture and slightly different nutritional benefits, allowing for delightful experimentation.

To infuse unparalleled freshness and vibrant nutrients, we incorporate a colorful array of fresh vegetables. Diced tomatoes add a tangy sweetness and are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, while chopped onions and bell peppers provide aromatic depth, crisp texture, and a spectrum of vitamins, including Vitamin C. These vegetables are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, enhancing the overall nutritional value of the dish and contributing to a well-rounded meal. For the cheese layer, a traditional source of higher calories, we make a simple yet effective swap. Instead of full-fat shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack, we recommend a lighter alternative like grated low-fat queso fresco. This mild, crumbly Mexican cheese offers approximately half the calories and fat of many other cheeses, allowing for that essential cheesy goodness without the extra points. Its fresh, slightly salty flavor perfectly complements the taco profile and provides a delicious, guilt-free indulgence.

Why This Weight Watchers Taco Casserole Recipe is a Must-Try: Unbeatable Benefits!

Embarking on a Weight Watchers journey or simply seeking a healthier alternative for your family meals doesn’t imply a compromise on flavor or enjoyment. Our Weight Watchers-friendly Taco Casserole is meticulously crafted to deliver an exceptional dining experience, offering a multitude of benefits that cater to both your taste buds and your health goals:

  • Authentic and Satisfying Taco Flavors: You don’t have to give up the taste you love. This casserole truly captures the essence of classic tacos – the warm spices, the savory meat, the fresh veggies – all baked into a convenient, delicious dish. It’s a flavor explosion that will delight your taste buds and satisfy your cravings for Mexican-inspired cuisine.
  • Rich in Lean Protein: With the strategic use of 95% lean ground beef and fiber-rich beans, this recipe ensures a substantial protein boost without the burden of excess fat. Protein is crucial for satiety, muscle repair, and overall well-being, making this casserole a truly nourishing choice that helps keep you full and energized throughout the day.
  • Significantly Lower in Calories and Points: Through intelligent ingredient selections and cooking methods, we’ve drastically reduced the calorie count and Weight Watchers points per serving. Enjoy a generous portion of this comforting meal with peace of mind, knowing it supports your dietary goals without feeling deprived or sacrificing on portion size.
  • Packed with Fiber and Nutrients: The abundance of beans, corn, diced tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers means each serving is loaded with dietary fiber, essential vitamins, and beneficial antioxidants. This not only aids digestion but also contributes to your daily intake of vital micronutrients, promoting overall health.
  • Easy to Prepare and Family-Friendly: This casserole is designed for busy individuals and families. Its straightforward preparation makes it perfect for weeknight dinners, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor. Its universally appealing flavors ensure it will be a hit with everyone at the table, even those not tracking points, making mealtime stress-free and delicious.
  • Excellent for Meal Prepping: Prepare a larger batch on the weekend, and you’ll have healthy, ready-to-eat meals for several days. It reheats beautifully, making it an ideal choice for healthy lunches or quick dinners throughout the week, saving you time and ensuring you always have a nutritious option available.

Discover the best of both worlds with our Weight Watchers Taco Casserole: the vibrant, Mexican-inspired flavors you crave, perfectly aligned with a healthier lifestyle. It’s a dish that proves healthy eating can be both easy and incredibly delicious, making it a staple in your recipe repertoire!

Recipe Overview:

  • Servings: 6
  • Preparation time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking time: 30 minutes
  • WW Points Per Serving: 5 (Points are based on general Weight Watchers calculations and may vary slightly depending on specific brand ingredients used and any customizations.)

Essential Ingredients for Your Healthy Taco Casserole

Gathering your ingredients is the first exciting step towards creating this fantastic dish. We’ve carefully selected components that deliver maximum flavor and nutrition while keeping your Weight Watchers goals in mind. You’ll find a mix of lean proteins, hearty vegetables, and smart swaps for traditional dairy, ensuring every bite is both delicious and wholesome:

Ingredients of ground beef, taco seasoning, black beans, sweet corn, diced tomatoes, diced onions, chopped bell pepper, grated cheese, tortillas, and Greek yogurt in separate dishes.
  • 1 lb (450 g) of lean ground beef (95% lean or higher for best results in reducing fat content)
  • 1 packet (1 oz or approximately 28 g) of low-sodium taco seasoning (look for brands with no added sugar or excessive salt to keep it WW-friendly)
  • 1 can (15 oz or approximately 425 g) of pinto beans or black beans, thoroughly drained and rinsed (rinsing reduces sodium)
  • 1 cup (150 g) of sweet corn (fresh, frozen, or canned with no added sugar – ensure it’s well drained if canned)
  • 1 cup (150 g) of diced tomatoes (canned, undrained for moisture and flavor, or fresh, ripe tomatoes)
  • ½ cup (75 g) of finely chopped onions (yellow or white onions work well for their classic savory base)
  • ½ cup (75 g) of chopped bell peppers (feel free to use a colorful mix of red, green, yellow, or orange peppers for visual appeal and varied nutrients)
  • ½ cup (60 g) of grated low-fat queso fresco (or a similar low-fat Mexican cheese blend, ensuring it’s genuinely low-fat)
  • 2 whole wheat tortillas (approximately 6-7 inches in diameter), cut into thin strips for layering (whole wheat adds fiber)
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) of low-fat Greek yogurt (optional, for a creamy, tangy topping instead of sour cream)
  • 1 teaspoon of salt (adjust to taste, especially if your taco seasoning is not low-sodium)
  • 1 teaspoon of black pepper (freshly ground is always best for flavor)
  • Cooking spray for greasing the baking dish (essential for preventing sticking without adding excess fat)

Step-by-Step Instructions: Crafting Your Delicious Weight Watchers Taco Casserole

Follow these simple steps to assemble your flavorful and healthy taco casserole. This recipe is designed to be straightforward, ensuring a delightful cooking experience and a mouth-watering result that you’ll be proud to serve:

  1. Prepare the Ground Beef: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). While the oven preheats, lightly grease a suitable-sized baking dish with cooking spray – an 8×8 inch or 9×13 inch dish works well depending on desired thickness of the casserole. In a large skillet set over medium heat, cook the lean ground beef. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks until it is thoroughly browned and no longer pink, ensuring no raw meat remains. Once cooked, add the low-sodium taco seasoning, along with the salt and black pepper. Mix everything well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed and coat the beef thoroughly. Then, remove the skillet from the heat and carefully drain any excess fat using a colander or by dabbing with paper towels, to keep the casserole as lean as possible.
  2. Combine the Vegetables and Beans: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the thoroughly drained and rinsed beans (black or pinto), sweet corn, diced tomatoes (including their juices if using canned for extra flavor and moisture), finely chopped onions, and chopped bell peppers. This colorful mix forms the heart of your casserole’s nutritional value, adding texture, flavor, and essential nutrients.
  3. Integrate Meat and Veggies: Add the cooked and seasoned ground beef to the bowl containing the vibrant bean and vegetable mixture. Gently mix all the ingredients together using a spoon or spatula until they are uniformly combined. This ensures every spoonful of your casserole is bursting with flavor and texture.
  4. First Layer Assembly: In your prepared baking dish, arrange a single layer of the thin strips of whole wheat tortillas at the bottom. These strips will provide a satisfying base and a pleasant texture, soaking up the delicious juices from the filling. Evenly pour half of the delicious meat and vegetable mixture over the tortilla strips, spreading it out to cover the entire base.
  5. Add the First Cheese Layer: Evenly sprinkle half of the grated low-fat queso fresco (or your chosen low-fat cheese) over the first layer of meat and vegetable mixture. This will create a luscious, cheesy layer within the casserole that melts beautifully during baking.
  6. Second Layer Assembly: Add another layer of tortilla strips on top of the cheese layer. Then, carefully spread the remaining meat and vegetable mixture over these new tortilla strips, ensuring an even distribution throughout the dish.
  7. Final Cheese Topping: Finish the casserole by generously scattering the remaining grated low-fat queso fresco over the top. This top layer will become wonderfully golden and bubbly in the oven, forming a delightful and slightly crispy crust.
  8. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is wonderfully bubbly and has turned a light golden brown, indicating it’s perfectly melted and slightly browned. The edges should also be lightly crisped.
  9. Rest Before Serving: Once baked, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. It’s crucial to let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to portion neatly and ensuring all the flavors meld beautifully for an optimal taste experience.
  10. Serve and Garnish: Serve individual portions of the warm taco casserole. For an extra touch of creaminess and tang, top each serving with a teaspoon of low-fat Greek yogurt as a dressing. You can also add fresh cilantro, a squeeze of fresh lime, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce if desired, to elevate the flavors even further.
Ground beef cooking in a pan.
Drained beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chopped onions, and bell peppers combined in a bowl.
Cooked ground beef added to the mixture of beans and vegetables.
Ground beef and veggie mixture topped with tortilla strips in a baking dish.

Creative Variations & Smart Substitutions for Your Taco Casserole

One of the best aspects of casserole recipes is their incredible versatility, allowing you to adapt them to your specific tastes and dietary needs. This Weight Watchers Taco Casserole is no exception, offering plenty of room for customization to suit your taste preferences, dietary needs, or what you simply have on hand. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe truly your own, exploring new flavors and textures!

  • Swap Beef for Lean Ground Chicken or Turkey: For an even lighter take, or simply to explore different flavors, replace the lean ground beef with lean ground chicken or ground turkey. These poultry options are naturally lower in fat and calories, making them excellent choices for Weight Watchers and those focusing on leaner protein sources. Ground chicken offers a milder flavor that readily absorbs the taco seasonings, while ground turkey provides a slightly richer taste. Both are fantastic ways to diversify your meals while keeping the point count low and maintaining a high protein content.
  • Experiment with Different Types of Beans: While black beans and pinto beans are classic choices and work wonderfully in this casserole, feel free to switch things up based on your preference. Consider using cannellini beans for a creamier texture, kidney beans for a more robust flavor, or even a mixed bean blend for added variety in flavor and nutrition. Each type of bean contributes its own unique set of nutrients, including different fiber profiles and mineral content, allowing you to tailor the dish to your preference while boosting its health benefits.
  • Add Some Spice or Tang: If you’re a fan of heat, spice things up by incorporating finely diced fresh jalapeños (remove seeds and membranes for less heat, or leave them in for maximum fire) or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the meat mixture during cooking. For a milder, yet still flavorful kick, a dash of your favorite hot sauce after baking can also do the trick. On the other hand, if you prefer a tangy crunch without the heat, consider adding a layer of thinly sliced dill pickles or a spoonful of pickled jalapeños (which are often milder than fresh) to the casserole before baking. A generous squeeze of fresh lime juice over the finished dish also brightens all the flavors and adds a zesty tang.
  • Greek Yogurt as a Healthier Sour Cream Alternative: Traditional sour cream is often high in fat and calories, which can significantly increase your Weight Watchers points. For a healthier, high-protein alternative, a dollop of low-fat or fat-free Greek yogurt is an excellent choice. Drizzling a bit of Greek yogurt, perhaps mixed with a pinch of salt and a squeeze of lime juice, over your individual Taco Casserole portions adds a creamy, tangy finish that perfectly mimics sour cream’s texture and cooling effect, without the added points.
  • Vegetarian Option: To make this casserole suitable for a vegetarian diet, simply substitute the ground beef with an equal amount of plant-based ground “meat” crumbles. Alternatively, you can increase the amount of beans and corn, or add cooked lentils, finely chopped mushrooms, or even crumbled firm tofu for a heartier, protein-rich vegetarian option.
  • Gluten-Free Option: If you need a gluten-free meal, simply ensure that your taco seasoning is certified gluten-free and swap the whole wheat tortillas for gluten-free corn tortillas or other gluten-free wraps.

Expert Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Weight Watchers Taco Casserole

Elevate your Weight Watchers Taco Casserole from great to absolutely exceptional with these insider tips and clever tricks. These small adjustments can make a big difference in flavor, texture, and overall enjoyment, ensuring your casserole is always a showstopper:

  • Marinating Magic for Deeper Flavor: Don’t just season the beef as you cook it. For a truly robust and integrated flavor profile, consider marinating your lean ground beef with half a packet of taco seasoning and a splash of water or low-sodium broth for at least two hours, or even overnight, before you prepare the casserole. This crucial step allows the meat to fully absorb the complex savory essence of the spices, resulting in a more profound and satisfying taste that permeates every layer of the dish.
  • Whole Wheat Tortillas: The Healthier Crunch: Instead of relying on traditional, often fried, tortilla chips for your crunchy layer, embrace the benefits of whole wheat tortillas. Cut them into thin strips or tear them into bite-sized pieces. Whole wheat options provide significantly more fiber and complex carbohydrates compared to refined flour tortillas or chips, making your casserole even more wholesome, filling, and Weight Watchers-friendly.
  • Crispy Baked Tortilla Strips (Homemade is Best!): To achieve that delightful crispy crunch without the extra oil and calories, make your own baked tortilla strips. Lightly spray your whole wheat tortilla strips with cooking spray, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-8 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Watch them closely to prevent burning, as they can go from perfect to burnt quickly. These homemade strips add a superior texture and fresh flavor to your casserole, far beyond what store-bought chips can offer.
  • Grilled Corn for Smoky Depth: Elevate the sweet corn component by using grilled corn kernels. If you have access to a grill, charring the corn slightly before adding it to the mixture imparts a wonderful smoky flavor that adds a unique and sophisticated dimension to your dish, reminiscent of a summer barbecue. If fresh grilled corn isn’t an option, you can achieve a similar effect by pan-roasting frozen corn in a dry skillet over medium-high heat until lightly browned and slightly charred.
  • Pro Tip: Ideal for Weekend Meal Prep & Freezing: This Weight Watchers Taco Casserole is an absolute dream for meal prepping. Prepare a large batch on the weekend, divide it into individual portions, and store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Alternatively, it freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a delicious, wholesome meal, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven or microwave. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or healthy lunches on the go, making healthy eating convenient.
  • Don’t Skimp on the Veggies: The more vegetables you add, the more nutrients and fiber you’ll get, and the more filling your meal will be without adding significant points. Consider adding finely chopped zucchini, mushrooms, diced carrots, or even fresh spinach to the meat and bean mixture for an extra nutritional boost and added texture.
  • Fresh Toppings are Key: While the casserole is delicious on its own, fresh toppings can truly brighten and complete the meal. Think a generous sprinkle of fresh cilantro, a dollop of fat-free salsa or pico de gallo, a few slices of pickled jalapeños, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice. These additions add bursts of flavor and freshness that elevate the entire dish.

The Nutritional Powerhouse Behind This Healthy Casserole

Beyond being delicious and perfectly aligned with Weight Watchers principles, this Taco Casserole is a true nutritional winner. Each ingredient plays a vital role in contributing to a well-balanced and wholesome meal that supports your health and wellness goals:

  • High Protein Content: With the primary sources being lean ground beef and a generous amount of beans, this casserole is packed with high-quality protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing muscle tissues, producing vital enzymes and hormones, and, crucially for weight management, promoting satiety and keeping you feeling full for longer.
  • Rich in Dietary Fiber: Beans, corn, and whole wheat tortillas are all excellent sources of dietary fiber. Fiber is crucial for maintaining a healthy digestive system, helps regulate blood sugar levels by slowing down carbohydrate absorption, and significantly contributes to feeling full and satisfied, which is highly beneficial for weight management.
  • Vitamins and Minerals Galore: The vibrant variety of vegetables like tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers provides a wealth of essential vitamins and minerals. These include Vitamin C (a powerful antioxidant that supports immune function), Vitamin A (important for vision and skin health), and various B vitamins (vital for energy metabolism). They also contribute essential minerals like potassium (important for blood pressure regulation) and iron (crucial for oxygen transport).
  • Healthy Complex Carbohydrates: Whole wheat tortillas and corn provide complex carbohydrates. Unlike simple sugars, complex carbohydrates offer a sustained release of energy, preventing rapid sugar spikes and subsequent energy crashes. This helps maintain stable energy levels throughout your day.
  • Reduced Saturated Fat: By opting for extra lean ground beef (95% lean or higher) and low-fat cheese alternatives like queso fresco, we significantly reduce the saturated fat content of the dish. This makes it a much heart-healthier choice compared to traditional casserole versions, contributing to better cardiovascular well-being.
  • Antioxidant Rich: The array of fresh vegetables and beans provides a good dose of antioxidants, which help combat free radicals in the body, reducing cellular damage and supporting overall health.

Perfect Pairings & Further Customization

This Weight Watchers Taco Casserole is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some ideas to enhance your meal, add extra freshness, or tailor it even further to your preferences:

  • Fresh Toppings: Don’t forget to add fresh toppings right before serving to bring a burst of flavor and texture. A sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro, a dollop of fat-free salsa or vibrant pico de gallo, a few slices of pickled jalapeños, or a refreshing squeeze of fresh lime juice can brighten the flavors immensely and add a gourmet touch.
  • Side Salad: For a complete and refreshing meal, serve your taco casserole alongside a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette dressing. This adds an extra boost of fresh vegetables and a contrasting texture.
  • Cauliflower Rice: For those looking to increase vegetable intake or reduce carbs even further, a side of seasoned cauliflower rice can be a great complement to soak up the delicious casserole flavors.
  • Avocado (in moderation): While avocado is higher in points, a small amount diced on top (be mindful of portion size for Weight Watchers) can add healthy monounsaturated fats and a wonderfully creamy texture that complements the spicy flavors.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the spice level to your family’s preference. Add more chili powder, a dash of your favorite hot sauce, or extra fresh jalapeños if you like it fiery. For a milder version, simply omit any additional spice beyond the taco seasoning.
  • Vegetarian & Vegan Options: As mentioned, this recipe is easily adaptable for vegetarian and vegan diets. Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles, lentils, or additional beans and corn. For a fully vegan dish, ensure all cheese and Greek yogurt are replaced with plant-based, dairy-free alternatives.
  • Different Cheeses: If queso fresco isn’t available or you prefer another low-fat option, try a low-fat shredded Mexican blend, mozzarella, or even a nutritional yeast sprinkle for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Convenience

One of the many advantages of this delicious Weight Watchers Taco Casserole is how well it stores and reheats, making it a fantastic option for meal prep and for those with busy schedules. Prepare it once and enjoy it multiple times!

  • Refrigeration: Leftovers can be stored safely in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s important to ensure the casserole has cooled completely to room temperature before transferring it to the container to prevent condensation and maintain freshness.
  • Freezing: This casserole freezes exceptionally well, making it perfect for long-term meal planning. For best results, allow the baked casserole to cool completely. You can freeze it whole in the baking dish (covered tightly with aluminum foil and then an additional layer of plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn) or portion it into individual freezer-safe containers for grab-and-go meals. It will keep beautifully in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating from Refrigerator: To reheat individual portions, simply microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until thoroughly heated through. For larger portions (e.g., half a casserole), cover with foil and reheat in an oven preheated to 300°F (150°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through to the center.
  • Reheating from Frozen: If reheating from frozen, it’s generally best to thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator first. Then, reheat as you would from the refrigerator. If reheating from frozen directly (e.g., a whole casserole), cover tightly with foil and bake in a 350°F (180°C) oven for 45-60 minutes, or until heated through, removing the foil for the last 10-15 minutes to allow the cheese to crisp up nicely. Individual frozen portions can be microwaved for 4-6 minutes, stirring halfway, until hot.

This Weight Watchers Taco Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to enjoy satisfying, flavorful food while staying true to your health and wellness journey. It’s comfort food reimagined, offering a perfect blend of taste, convenience, and nutrition that your whole family will love, proving that healthy eating can truly be a feast.

Discover More Healthy & Delicious Recipes

If you enjoyed this Weight Watchers Taco Casserole and are looking for more healthy and easy-to-make dishes that fit into a mindful eating plan, explore these related recipes:

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4 from 13 votes

Simple Taco Casserole

By: Drizzle Me Skinny
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 30 minutes
Total: 45 minutes

Cheesy ground beef taco casserole on a plate, garnished with a lemon wedge and fresh herbs.
A Mexican-American classic with lean meat, beans, veggies, and cheese.

Ingredients 

  • 1 lb 450 g of lean ground beef (95% lean)
  • 1 packet, 1 oz or approximately 28 g of low-sodium taco seasoning
  • 1 can, 15 oz or approximately 425 g of pinto beans or black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup 150 g of sweet corn (you can use frozen or canned corn with no added sugar)
  • 1 cup 150 g of diced tomatoes
  • ½ cup 75 g of chopped onions
  • ½ cup 75 g of chopped bell peppers (you can use various colored peppers)
  • ½ cup 60 g of grated low-fat queso fresco
  • 2 whole wheat tortillas, approximately 6-7 inches in diameter, cut into thin strips
  • ¼ cup 60 ml of low-fat Greek yogurt (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 teaspoon of black pepper
  • Cooking spray for greasing the baking dish
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Instructions 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Lightly grease a suitable-sized baking dish. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the lean ground beef until thoroughly cooked and browned. Add the low-sodium taco seasoning, salt, and black pepper, and mix well. Then, remove from heat and drain any excess fat.
  • In a large bowl, combine the drained beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chopped onions, and bell peppers.
  • Add the cooked ground beef to the mixture of beans and vegetables and mix everything together.
  • In the greased baking dish, place a layer of the thin strips of whole wheat tortillas on the bottom. Pour half of the meat and vegetable mixture over the tortillas.
  • Sprinkle half of the grated low-fat queso fresco over the meat and vegetable mixture.
  • Add another layer of tortilla strips and top with the remaining meat and vegetable mixture.
  • Finish with a layer of grated low-fat queso fresco on top.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  • Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
  • Serve individual portions with a teaspoon of low-fat Greek yogurt on top as a dressing.

Notes

5 WW points per serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 250gCalories: 316kcalCarbohydrates: 33gProtein: 27gFat: 8.4gSaturated Fat: 3.8gCholesterol: 53mgSodium: 464mgPotassium: 747mgFiber: 8.9gSugar: 3.7gCalcium: 126mgIron: 4.2mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Tried this recipe?Mention @drizzlemeskinny or tag #drizzlemeskinny!