This Walking Taco Bake is a fun and family-friendly twist on the classic walking taco. Combining seasoned ground beef, crunchy tortilla chips, melted cheese, and all your favorite taco toppings, this casserole is easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or potluck dish. All the flavor of a taco, baked in a comforting casserole form, makes this dish an instant crowd-pleaser. Let’s dig into this delicious recipe that will bring taco night to the next level!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients for Walking Taco Bake
- Instructions for Walking Taco Bake
- Tips & Notes
- Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients for Walking Taco Bake
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel), drained
- 3 cups corn chips (like Fritos), divided
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional, for garnish)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions for Walking Taco Bake
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks, about 6-8 minutes.
- Drain excess fat, then add the taco seasoning and water. Stir until well combined and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the black beans and diced tomatoes with green chilies to the skillet. Stir until heated through and well combined.
Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
- Spread 2 cups of the corn chips in an even layer on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the beef mixture over the corn chips, spreading it evenly.
- Spoon sour cream over the beef mixture, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Step 3: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and immediately top with the remaining 1 cup of corn chips for added crunch.
- Garnish with chopped green onions, sliced black olives, and chopped cilantro if desired.
Tips & Notes
- Drain the Tomatoes: Make sure to drain the diced tomatoes with green chilies well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
- Cheese Options: You can use Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese instead of cheddar for a different flavor.
- Serve with Toppings: Serve this bake with additional toppings like salsa, guacamole, or jalapeños for extra flavor.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Chicken Walking Taco Bake: Substitute the ground beef with ground chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken for a lighter option.
- Vegetarian Version: Use a meat substitute like textured vegetable protein or extra black beans to make this casserole vegetarian.
- Add Veggies: Mix in diced bell peppers or corn kernels to add more texture and flavor to the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make Walking Taco Bake ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for quicker reheating.
3. Can I freeze Walking Taco Bake?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled, unbaked casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
This Walking Taco Bake takes the best of taco night and transforms it into an easy, cheesy casserole that’s perfect for any occasion. With its savory meat, crunchy corn chips, and melted cheese, this dish is sure to be a hit with everyone. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, game day, or a casual get-together, this taco bake is a simple yet delicious meal that will leave everyone wanting more.
Happy cooking, and enjoy this fun and flavorful dish!
