Walking Taco Casserole Recipe

Walking taco casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines all the flavors of a classic walking taco into an easy-to-make, baked casserole. This recipe layers seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, crunchy tortilla chips, and your favorite taco toppings for a meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks. Here’s how to make this fun and flavorful dish step by step.

Ingredients

For the Base:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel), drained
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
• 1 bag (10-12 oz) corn or tortilla chips (such as Fritos or Doritos)

Optional Toppings:

• Sour cream
• Sliced jalapeños
• Diced tomatoes
• Shredded lettuce
• Black olives, sliced
• Chopped cilantro
• Guacamole or diced avocados
• Salsa

Equipment Needed:

• Large skillet
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and fully cooked, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.
• Add the chopped onion and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened.
• Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 3: Season the Meat

• Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked beef and stir in ½ cup of water (or as directed on the seasoning packet).
• Add the drained tomatoes with green chilies and black beans. Stir to combine and let simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

• Spread a layer of corn or tortilla chips at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Spoon the beef mixture evenly over the layer of chips.
• Sprinkle 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese over the beef mixture.

Step 5: Bake

• Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
• Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Add Toppings and Serve

• Top the casserole with your favorite taco toppings such as sour cream, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or guacamole.
• Serve immediately for the best texture, while the chips remain crispy.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: Serve this casserole with a side of Spanish rice or refried beans for a complete Tex-Mex meal.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions.
• Freezing: This casserole can be frozen without the chips and toppings. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Helpful Notes

• Chip Options: Use your favorite chips, such as classic tortilla chips for a traditional taste or flavored chips like chili cheese Fritos for an extra kick.
• Meat Variations: Substitute ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option, or use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
• Topping Ideas: For a southwestern twist, add corn kernels or sliced avocado to your toppings.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Ree Drummond (The Pioneer Woman): Recommends adding a touch of hot sauce to the beef mixture for added spice.
• Guy Fieri: Suggests sprinkling a bit of smoked paprika or chipotle powder into the taco seasoning for depth of flavor.
• Rick Bayless: Advises using freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and assemble the casserole (without the chips) up to 24 hours in advance. Store in the refrigerator and add chips and cheese just before baking.

Q2: Can I use low-fat cheese?
Yes, low-fat cheese can be used, but it may not melt as smoothly as regular cheese.

Q3: What can I substitute for the taco seasoning?
Use a blend of 1 tsp chili powder, ½ tsp cumin, ¼ tsp garlic powder, ¼ tsp onion powder, ¼ tsp paprika, and salt to taste for a homemade version.

Q4: Can I use refried beans instead of whole beans?
Yes, spread a layer of refried beans over the chips before adding the beef mixture for a creamy base.

Q5: What’s the best way to keep the chips crispy?
Serve the casserole immediately after baking, as the chips can become soggy over time. For leftovers, add a fresh layer of chips when reheating.

Q6: Can I add vegetables to the meat mixture?
Yes, bell peppers or corn kernels can be sautéed with the beef for extra flavor and texture.

Q7: How can I make it spicier?
Add chopped jalapeños or use a spicy taco seasoning. Drizzle hot sauce or add cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for more heat.

Q8: Can I use other types of cheese?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack cheese works well if you want a different flavor.

Q9: What’s the best way to serve this dish for a party?
Serve it buffet-style with bowls of various toppings so guests can customize their portions.

Q10: Can I add rice to the casserole?
Yes, add a layer of cooked rice between the chips and the beef mixture for a more filling dish.

Enjoy this easy-to-make walking taco casserole for a satisfying, cheesy, and crunchy meal that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family!