Walking Taco Casserole

Walking Taco Casserole

Have you ever experienced the joy of a taco in a handheld form, bursting with all the flavors we love? Now imagine collecting those same delicious ingredients into a warm and hearty casserole! That’s what Walking Taco Casserole offers – a flavor-packed, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for a cozy family dinner or weekend gathering. This recipe combines seasoned ground beef, layers of savory toppings, and crushed tortilla chips for that satisfying crunch. If you’ve ever enjoyed a traditional walking taco at fairs or parties, you’ll know just how irresistible they can be. What makes this casserole special is its ease of preparation and ability to feed a hungry crowd, making it the ultimate weeknight meal.

If you’ve loved our popular Cheesy Chili Mac, then you definitely need to try this one — it’s just as comforting and just as delicious! Getting a warm meal on the table doesn’t have to be complicated. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delightful dish that’s sure to bring smiles around your dinner table!

What is Walking Taco Casserole?

So, what exactly is a Walking Taco Casserole? Well, if you’re asking, “Does this mean I can eat my tacos while walking?” you’re not alone! The name comes from the classic fair food where all your taco favorites are served in a bag of chips. This casserole version may not be portable, but it combines all the joy of a walking taco into one deliciously cheesy dish. With ground beef, taco seasoning, and all the best toppings, you might just say the way to a man’s heart is through this casserole! It’s easy to make, fun to eat, and oh-so-good, so why not give it a try?

Why You’ll Love This Walking Taco Casserole

This dish has three standout features that make it a must-try! First, the blend of flavors is simply irresistible. You’re welcomed by the rich notes of seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and the satisfying crunch of tortilla chips, making each bite a celebration of flavors. Second, it’s cost-effective! You can whip this up at home without breaking the bank, all while enjoying that delicious taco taste. Finally, let’s talk toppings! You can customize this casserole with anything from fresh tomatoes and olives to dollops of sour cream and guacamole. If you’re looking for a similarly comforting dish, be sure to check out our Baked Ziti, as it too is a family favorite! Get in the kitchen and enjoy making cooking fun with this tantalizing meal!

How to Make Walking Taco Casserole

Quick Overview

The best part about Walking Taco Casserole is how quick and satisfying it is! With a prep time of roughly 15 minutes and a bake time of 25-30 minutes, you can have a savory, warm dish ready for dinner in under an hour. Plus, it’s fully loaded with flavor and perfect for satisfying appetites of all ages.

Key Ingredients for Walking Taco Casserole

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup water
• 2 cups crushed tortilla chips
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
• 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, diced green onions, olives, jalapeños

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your casserole bakes perfectly.

2. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown 1 pound of ground beef until cooked through. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks.

3. Add Seasoning: Stir in 1 packet of taco seasoning along with 1 cup of water. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.

4. Layer Ingredients: In a large baking dish, start layering your ingredients. Pour half of the crushed tortilla chips at the bottom, followed by the seasoned beef, black beans, corn, and tomatoes.

5. Add Cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the layers before adding the remaining crushed chips on top.

6. Top Off: Finish by adding another cup of cheese on top for that melty goodness.

7. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

8. Let It Rest: Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving to let it set and make serving easier.

What to Serve Walking Taco Casserole With

A great accompaniment to Walking Taco Casserole includes a crisp side salad dressed with a zesty vinaigrette. You can also pair it with some fresh guacamole and tortilla chips for added crunch. If you’re looking for a refreshing drink, serve it with homemade lemonade or iced tea to contrast the savory flavors of the dish.

Top Tips for Perfecting Walking Taco Casserole

• Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option. You can also swap out the beans for black-eyed peas for a unique twist.
• Adjusting Spiciness: If you want to crank up the heat, feel free to add diced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce to the beef mixture.
• Avoiding Sogginess: To ensure the tortilla chips stay crispy, try adding them closer to the end of the baking time instead of layering at the bottom.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Alternatively, you can freeze it for future meals—just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

Walking Taco Casserole not only offers a fun twist to your pantry staples but also provides a heartwarming meal that everyone will love! Try it tonight and make it a new family favorite!

Walking Taco Casserole

A flavor-packed, crowd-pleasing casserole that combines seasoned ground beef, savory toppings, and crunchy tortilla chips, perfect for a cozy family dinner.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup water
• 2 cups crushed tortilla chips Keep some for layering on top.
• 2 cups shredded cheese Cheddar or Mexican blend.
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans Drain and rinse.
• 1 cup corn Frozen or canned.
• 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes Fresh or canned.

Optional Toppings

• to taste none sour cream
• to taste none guacamole
• to taste none diced green onions
• to taste none olives
• to taste none jalapeños Can increase spiciness.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until cooked through, breaking it into small pieces.
3. Stir in taco seasoning and water, letting it simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Assembly

1. In a large baking dish, layer half of the crushed tortilla chips at the bottom.
2. Add the seasoned beef on top, followed by black beans, corn, and chopped tomatoes.
3. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the layers, then add the remaining crushed chips.
4. Top off with the last cup of cheese.

Baking

1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serving

1. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to make it easier to serve.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for future meals. Reheat in the oven or microwave.