Layered Taco Casserole

Flour tortillas are made from wheat flour, but only use the endosperm of the wheat kernel. Whole wheat tortillas use all three parts of the kernel – the endosperm, bran and germ. The kernel is another name for the wheat seed, or wheat berry. You can learn more about a kernel of wheat on our “Grain’s Anatomy” page.

Did you know that wheat is grown in 42 states in the United States? There are six different classes of wheat, which are each used for different products. Tortillas are made from hard red winter or hard white wheat. Find out more about the classes of wheat on our “Which Wheat for What?” page.

Wheat harvest is a special time of year for farm families. Check out this video of wheat harvest with the Jason Ochs family in western Kansas.

Have a hungry family breathing down your neck for a filling supper? This recipe is your solution! Remember, it’s easy to prepare two at once, one for now and freeze one for later!

Ingredient List

For the Casserole:

1 pound ground beef or turkey
1 (16-ounce) can refried beans
1 (1 1/4-ounce) package mild taco or chili seasoning mix
1/2 cup water
6 (burrito-size) flour tortillas
2 cups shredded Mexican-style cheese

For Toppings (optional):

Lettuce
Mild or hot salsa
Sour cream
Hot sauce
Black olives

Instructions

For the casserole

Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.
In a large skillet, brown ground beef and drain well. Stir in beans, seasoning mix and water. Simmer 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Layer tortillas, beef mixture and cheese in baking pan, overlapping tortillas to fit. Sprinkle cheese on top.
Bake 20 minutes. If desired, garnish with toppings.
Want more quick and easy dinner recipes? We’ve got you covered!
Or would you like to meet a farmer? Be sure and watch Justin Knopf, a wheat farmer from Kansas. If you’re looking for more great recipes be sure and check out our friends at the Home Baking Association!