Description
This Walking Taco Casserole is a fun and delicious twist on the classic walking taco, perfect for family dinners or game day gatherings. It features layers of seasoned ground beef, crunchy corn chips, and melted cheddar cheese, all topped with fresh taco fixings like sour cream, lettuce, tomatoes, and more. It’s an easy, customizable dish that’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (canned or frozen)
- 3 cups corn chips (like Fritos)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
- 1 large tomato, chopped
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Add the taco seasoning mix, diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, and corn. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. - Assemble the Casserole:
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of corn chips on the bottom. Spoon the beef mixture evenly over the chips. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. - Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. - Add Toppings and Serve:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Spread the sour cream over the top, then sprinkle with sliced black olives, chopped green onions, cilantro, chopped tomatoes, and shredded lettuce. - Serve:
Scoop portions of the Walking Taco Casserole onto plates, making sure to include all the layers. Enjoy with extra sour cream, salsa, or guacamole on the side!
Notes
- Protein Options: Feel free to substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative to suit your preferences.
- Spice Level: To adjust the spice, you can use mild or spicy Rotel, or add more heat with jalapeños or hot sauce.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just assemble and bake the casserole when ready to serve.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the chip’s crunch.