Walking Taco Casserole!!!

Instructions for Walking Taco Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish or spray it with non-stick cooking spray for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef (or turkey) over medium heat until fully cooked. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Add the Seasonings and Tomatoes

Add the taco seasoning to the browned meat, followed by the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato paste, and the black beans (if using). Stir everything together and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

In the prepared casserole dish, spread a layer of the crushed tortilla chips at the bottom. Top the chips with the seasoned meat mixture, spreading it evenly over the chips.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese blend) evenly over the meat mixture, making sure to cover it completely. The cheese will melt and create a deliciously gooey topping.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.

Step 7: Add Toppings and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Then, top it with your favorite taco toppings like sour cream, shredded lettuce, chopped green onions, jalapeños, and a dollop of salsa. Serve with extra tortilla chips on the side for an added crunch.

Tips for the Best Walking Taco Casserole

• Customize the Toppings: One of the best things about this casserole is how easy it is to customize. Add your favorite taco toppings, such as guacamole, diced tomatoes, olives, or even avocado slices for a creamy texture.
• Try a Meatless Version: For a vegetarian option, you can skip the meat entirely and use extra beans or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and onions as the base for your casserole.
• Make It Spicy: If you like things spicy, consider adding a chopped jalapeño to the meat mixture or topping your casserole with some hot sauce or chili flakes.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble this casserole ahead of time, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake it, just pop it in the oven and bake as usual.
• Serve with a Side Salad: To balance the richness of the casserole, serve it alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or a side of Mexican street corn for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Want to Make Walking Taco Casserole Again and Again

Walking Taco Casserole is a perfect example of why comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that’s flavorful, hearty, and fun to eat. Whether you’re enjoying it at a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this casserole is guaranteed to be a hit.

What makes this dish even better is its versatility—don’t hesitate to get creative with the ingredients and toppings to make it your own. The combination of seasoned beef, crispy chips, gooey cheese, and fresh toppings makes this casserole a delightful treat for taco lovers of all ages.

Conclusion

For a meal that’s easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to please a crowd, Walking Taco Casserole is the way to go. It’s the perfect blend of comfort food and fun, with all the best taco ingredients baked into one irresistible dish. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Get ready to dig in and enjoy every bite!