Why Make This Recipe
Walking Taco Casserole is a fun twist on the classic walking taco. It brings all your favorite taco flavors into a warm and cheesy casserole that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. This recipe combines layers of beef, beans, cheese, and crunchy corn chips, making it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to make and can feed a hungry group!
How to Make Walking Taco Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 3 cups corn chips (such as Doritos or Fritos)
- 1 can black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
- 1/2 cup diced onions (optional)
- Sour cream and salsa for serving
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the taco seasoning and a splash of water to the beef, and stir until combined.
- In a baking dish, layer half of the corn chips, followed by half of the beef mixture, half of the cheese, and half of the black beans and corn. Repeat the layers.
- Top with the remaining cheese and optional diced tomatoes and onions.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve with sour cream and salsa on the side.
How to Serve Walking Taco Casserole
Serve the Walking Taco Casserole hot from the oven. You can add dollops of sour cream and scoops of salsa on top, or let everyone add their toppings at the table. This makes it easy for guests to customize their servings to their taste.
How to Store Walking Taco Casserole
After the casserole has cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.
Tips to Make Walking Taco Casserole
- For extra flavor, consider adding chopped jalapeños or diced bell peppers to the beef mixture.
- Use different types of cheese, like pepper jack, for a spicier punch.
- Add more veggies like zucchini or spinach if you want to make it healthier.
Variation
To make this a vegetarian dish, you can substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or crumbled tofu. Keep the other ingredients the same for a flavorful plant-based version.
FAQs
Q: Can I use different chips?
A: Yes! While corn chips are traditional, you can use any crispy chips you like, such as tortilla chips or even potato chips.
Q: Is it okay to make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and bake it just before serving. This saves time on busy days.
Q: Can I add extra toppings?
A: Definitely! Feel free to add sliced olives, fresh cilantro, or guacamole for extra flavor and texture.
Walking Taco Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the taco seasoning and a splash of water to the beef, and stir until combined.
- In a baking dish, layer half of the corn chips, followed by half of the beef mixture, half of the cheese, and half of the black beans and corn.
- Repeat the layers.
- Top with the remaining cheese and optional diced tomatoes and onions.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve with dollops of sour cream and scoops of salsa on the side.