Walking Taco Casserole is a beloved Midwest-inspired dish that transforms the classic walking taco into a comforting, crowd-pleasing baked meal. This innovative recipe captures the essence of a traditional taco in a convenient, shareable casserole format that brings together bold flavors and satisfying textures.
At its core, the Walking Taco Casserole is a celebration of simplicity and deliciousness. It combines seasoned ground beef, typically prepared with a robust taco seasoning blend, with layers of melted cheese, crunchy corn chips, and an array of vibrant toppings. The dish offers a perfect balance of spicy, creamy, and crispy elements that make it irresistible to both children and adults.
What sets this casserole apart is its incredible versatility. Home cooks can easily customize the recipe by using different types of chips like Fritos, Doritos, or tortilla chips, and can adjust the spice level and toppings to suit individual preferences. The preparation is remarkably straightforward, typically taking just 30-40 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option.
The beauty of the Walking Taco Casserole lies in its ability to bring people together. Whether served at a family dinner, potluck, or casual gathering, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser that combines the fun of a walking taco with the comfort of a hearty, baked casserole. Its popularity stems from its delicious simplicity and the joy of creating a meal that feels both familiar and exciting.
Walking Taco Casserole
Walking Taco Casserole is a delicious and easy-to-prepare Midwest-inspired dish that combines the flavors of a walking taco in a convenient casserole format. Here’s a comprehensive recipe:
Ingredients
• 1½ lbs ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can diced tomatoes or Rotel
• 3 oz cream cheese, cubed
• 2-3 cups corn chips (Fritos or Doritos)
• 2 cups shredded cheese (Mexican blend recommended)
Optional Toppings
• Shredded lettuce
• Diced tomatoes
• Sliced jalapeños
• Sour cream
• Cilantro
• Salsa
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
• Set oven to 350°F
• Grease an 8×8 or 9×13 inch baking dish
2. Prepare Meat
• Brown ground beef in a large skillet
• Add chopped onions and cook until softened
• Drain excess fat if needed
• Stir in taco seasoning
3. Build Casserole
• Mix in cream cheese, tomatoes, and black beans
• Stir until cream cheese is melted and incorporated
• Layer half the corn chips in the baking dish
• Add meat mixture over chips
• Sprinkle with half the cheese
• Top with remaining chips and cheese
4. Bake
• Bake for 15-20 minutes
• Cheese should be melted and bubbly
5. Serve
• Let cool for 5 minutes
• Add optional toppings
• Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Tips:
• Use lean ground beef (90% recommended)
• Can substitute Fritos with Doritos or tortilla chips
• Customize toppings to personal preference