Walking Taco Casserole

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty: Easy
Intensity: Moderate

Description

This Walking Taco Casserole is a delicious twist on the classic walking taco, combining all the flavors of a taco in an easy-to-make baked dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or game day gatherings, this casserole is packed with seasoned ground beef, crunchy tortilla chips, melty cheese, and all your favorite taco toppings—all baked to perfection.

Ingredients

Main Casserole

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)

• 1 small onion, diced

• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning)

• 1/2 cup water

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel)

• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

• 4 cups tortilla chips, slightly crushed

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)

Toppings (Optional)

• Shredded lettuce

• Diced tomatoes

• Sliced jalapeños

• Sour cream

• Sliced black olives

• Fresh cilantro

• Avocado or guacamole

• Salsa

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little oil.

Step 2: Cook the Meat & Veggies

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is browned and the onions are soft (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat.

2. Stir in the taco seasoning and water, then simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

3. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and corn. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Spread half of the tortilla chips in the bottom of the baking dish.

2. Pour half of the meat mixture over the chips, spreading evenly.

3. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese on top.

4. Repeat layers: remaining chips, remaining meat mixture, and remaining cheese.

Step 4: Bake

• Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Add Toppings & Serve

• Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before adding fresh toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, and jalapeños.

• Serve directly from the dish with extra tortilla chips on the side.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Tips & Variations

• Make it Spicy: Add a diced jalapeño to the meat mixture or use hot taco seasoning.

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or extra beans.

• Gluten-Free: Ensure all seasoning and toppings are gluten-free.

• Meal Prep Friendly: Assemble ahead and refrigerate, then bake when ready.

Final Thoughts

This Walking Taco Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that brings all the fun of walking tacos into an easy, shareable dish. With layers of flavor and customizable toppings, it’s a guaranteed hit for any occasion!