Taco Casserole

I found this recipe on the Betty Crocker website, and immediately knew it was something my family would love. I was right – this recipe was a HUGE hit at our house, and there was barely enough left over for me to save a little for myself for lunch the next day.

Taco Casserole

• 1 1b lean ground beef
• 1 can refried beans
• 1 16 oz jar salsa
• 1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning mix
• 2 1/2 C coarsely broken tortilla chips
• 2 TBS chopped chives
• 1 1/2 C chopped tomatoes
• 1 C cheddar cheese
• 1 small can sliced black olives
• 1 C shredded lettuce

Heat oven to 350. Lighly grease 2 qt casserole dish.

Brown beef in a 12 inch skillet until thoroughly cooked. Drain. Stir in refried beans, salsa, and taco seasoning mix. Reduce heat to medium. Heat to a boil, stirring occasionally.

Place 2 cups of the broken tortilla chips in the bottom of casserole dish. Top with the beef mixture, sprinkle with chives, and top with the olives, 1 cup of the tomato, and cheese.

Bake uncovered for 20 to 30 minutes until hot and bubbly and the cheese is melted. Top casserole with lettuce, and remaining tomatoes and tortilla chips.