Walking taco casserole is a fun and easy twist on the traditional walking taco! This hearty dish combines flavorful seasoned meat, melted cheese, and classic toppings, all baked together for a comforting meal. Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or game days, this casserole is sure to please both kids and adults alike. Get ready to enjoy a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish that brings all the flavors of tacos in one delightful casserole!
Ingredients
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 6 servings. Preparation time is 20 minutes, and cooking time is 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of walking taco casserole contains approximately 400 calories, 22g of protein, 28g of carbohydrates, and 24g of fat. This analysis is based on a standard serving size of one cup.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. In a large skillet, cook 1 pound of ground beef over medium heat until browned. 3. Drain excess fat and add taco seasoning and 1 cup of water; simmer for 5 minutes. 4. In a greased casserole dish, layer 1 bag of crushed tortilla chips. 5. Spread the beef mixture over the chips evenly. 6. Add 1 can of drained black beans and 1 cup of corn on top. 7. Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend) over the mixture. 8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly. 9. Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving. 10. Top with diced tomatoes, sour cream, and chopped cilantro if desired. 
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based protein for a healthier or vegetarian option. You can also use different beans or add diced bell peppers for extra flavor.
Serving and Pairings
Walking taco casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh guacamole, salsa, or a simple side salad. For a complete meal, serve with a side of Mexican rice or corn on the cob.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the meat can make it tough; ensure it’s just browned.
- Don’t skip the resting time after baking; it helps the layers set.
- Using too much seasoning can overpower the dish; follow the recipe for best results.
- Ensure the tortilla chips are evenly distributed for a balanced texture.
- Using low-fat cheese can affect the melting quality; use regular cheese for best results.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different cheese blends for unique flavors.
- Add jalapeños for a spicy kick!
- Top the casserole with fresh avocado or lime juice before serving.
- Use a mix of chip types for added crunch and flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it without baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Just bake it when ready to serve.
What can I use instead of tortilla chips?
You can substitute tortilla chips with crushed nacho chips or even crushed cornflakes for a different texture.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or use a spicy taco seasoning mix instead of the regular one.
Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This casserole holds up well for meal prep and can be divided into individual portions for easy lunches.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Yes, feel free to add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
Conclusion
Walking taco casserole is a delightful and hearty dish that brings the fun of tacos into a comforting and easy-to-make casserole. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the layers of flavor and the joy it brings to your table!
Walking Taco Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup water
- 1 bag crushed tortilla chips
- 1 can black beans drained
- 1 cup corn
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- Diced tomatoes for topping
- Sour cream for serving
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Drain excess fat and add taco seasoning and water; simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a greased casserole dish, layer crushed tortilla chips.
- Spread the beef mixture over the chips evenly.
- Add drained black beans and corn on top.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the mixture.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
- Top with diced tomatoes, sour cream, and chopped cilantro if desired.
Nutrition
