Walking Taco Casserole Recipe

This Walking Taco Casserole brings all your favorite taco flavors into one easy and satisfying dish. Perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering, this casserole combines seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, and cheese, topped with crunchy tortilla chips. Enjoy a comforting twist on tacos right from the comfort of your home!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning mix
• 1 cup salsa
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
• 1 avocado, diced (optional, for garnish)
• Sliced jalapeños (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Cook the Beef:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat if needed.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent.

Assemble the Casserole:

1. Stir in the taco seasoning mix, salsa, black beans, and corn. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
2. Transfer the beef mixture to a greased baking dish (about 9×13 inches).

Add Toppings:

1. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef mixture.
2. Top with crushed tortilla chips.

Bake:

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve:

1. Top with dollops of sour cream.
2. Garnish with chopped cilantro, diced avocado, and sliced jalapeños if desired.
3. Serve warm and enjoy your Walking Taco Casserole!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

1. Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with a meat alternative or extra beans.
2. Spicy Kick: Add chopped chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for extra heat.
3. Cheese Varieties: Use Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses for different flavor profiles.
4. Add Veggies: Include additional vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use the microwave for quicker reheating.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
   Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative.
2. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
3. What type of salsa should I use?
   Use your favorite salsa, whether mild, medium, or hot, depending on your spice preference.
4. Can I freeze this casserole?
   Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
5. How can I make this dish spicier?
   Add chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture for extra heat.
6. Can I use a different kind of cheese?
   Absolutely, feel free to use any cheese you like, such as Monterey Jack or a cheese blend.
7. What can I serve with this casserole?
   This casserole is great on its own but can also be served with a side of Mexican rice or a simple green salad.
8. How can I make the casserole healthier?
   Use lean ground beef, and add extra vegetables to boost the nutrition.
9. What if I don’t have crushed tortilla chips?
   You can substitute with crushed nacho chips or even crushed cornflakes for a similar crunch.
10. Can I add more beans or corn?
    Yes, feel free to adjust the amounts of beans or corn to suit your taste.

Conclusion

This Walking Taco Casserole is a delightful way to enjoy all the flavors of tacos in a comforting casserole format. With a hearty mix of ground beef, black beans, and cheese topped with crispy tortilla chips, it’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Print