Walking Taco Casserole is a flavorful and hearty dish that combines all the delicious elements of tacos into a comforting casserole. With layers of seasoned beef, black beans, corn chips, and melted cheese, it’s a crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 bag (9 oz) corn chips, crushed
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Optional toppings: sour cream, diced tomatoes, sliced olives, chopped green onions

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium heat until beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.
Stir in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and black beans. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Layer half of the crushed corn chips in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the meat mixture and half of the shredded cheese. Repeat layers.
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve hot with optional toppings.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef with a plant-based protein, such as lentils or soy crumbles, to make it vegetarian.
Spicy: Add a can of diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for extra heat.
Cheese Options: You can use other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Mexican blend for a different flavor profile.
Taco Shells: For a crunchier texture, top with whole taco shells or tortilla chips instead of crushed corn chips.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before freezing.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

10 FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a leaner option.
Can I use canned refried beans instead of black beans?
Yes, refried beans will work, but it will change the texture of the casserole.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and bake it just before serving.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
As long as you use gluten-free taco seasoning and chips, this casserole can be made gluten-free.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Yes, diced bell peppers, corn, or even spinach would work great in this dish.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute with any cheese you prefer, such as Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole can be served with a side of rice, a salad, or even additional taco toppings like guacamole or salsa.
Can I use a smaller baking dish?
Yes, but you may need to adjust the baking time accordingly.
Can I prepare this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can layer the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until cheese is melted.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Yes, adding jalapeños, chili powder, or hot sauce can make this dish as spicy as you like.

Conclusion

Walking Taco Casserole is a simple yet satisfying meal that brings the flavors of tacos into a cozy, baked dish. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing for a party, it’s a guaranteed hit. With plenty of options to customize the ingredients to your liking, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.