Walking Taco Casserole

Looking for a fun and easy meal that’s perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners? This Walking Taco Casserole is sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Inspired by the classic walking taco, this casserole version combines all the delicious flavors of tacos in a convenient and comforting dish. Layers of seasoned ground beef, crunchy tortilla chips, gooey cheese, and your favorite taco toppings come together to create a hearty and satisfying meal. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a cozy dinner, this Walking Taco Casserole is sure to please everyone at the table.

Kitchen Equipment Needed:

1. Large skillet
2. 9×13 inch baking dish
3. Mixing spoon or spatula

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef
• 1 packet (1.25 oz) taco seasoning mix
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
• 1 bag (10 oz) tortilla chips, lightly crushed
• 2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese
• Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sliced olives, diced avocado, sour cream, chopped cilantro, salsa

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
   • In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
   • Drain any excess grease from the skillet, then stir in the taco seasoning mix, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until heated through and well combined.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Spread half of the lightly crushed tortilla chips in an even layer on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
   • Spoon half of the ground beef mixture over the tortilla chips, spreading it out evenly.
   • Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
   • Repeat the layers with the remaining tortilla chips, ground beef mixture, and shredded cheddar cheese.
4. Bake the Casserole:
   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
   • Serve the Walking Taco Casserole hot, with your choice of optional toppings such as diced tomatoes, sliced olives, diced avocado, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or salsa.
   • Enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make casserole with family and friends for a satisfying meal that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!