Walking Taco Casserole

Walking Taco Casserole combines all the classic flavors of a walking taco into a hearty, comforting casserole. Ground beef, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes are layered with crunchy corn chips and melty cheddar cheese, then baked to perfection. This easy-to-make dish is a family favorite and perfect for feeding a crowd. It’s great for weeknight dinners, parties, or potlucks, and you can customize it with your favorite taco toppings.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can corn, drained
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 bag corn chips
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, avocado, lettuce

Directions

1. Preheat Oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Beef and Vegetables
   In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add Taco Seasoning and Veggies
   Stir in the taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
4. Layer the Casserole
   In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the corn chips on the bottom. Top with half of the beef mixture and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers.
5. Bake
   Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve
   Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven. Serve with optional toppings such as sour cream, salsa, avocado, and shredded lettuce for added freshness and flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Meat Options: You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even ground sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy Version: Add jalapeños or a can of diced green chilies to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with more beans (like kidney or pinto beans) or add additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a vegetarian-friendly casserole.
• Cheese Varieties: While cheddar is the classic choice, you can try other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend for more flavor.
• Low-Carb Option: For a low-carb version, swap the corn chips for a cauliflower-based chip or another low-carb alternative.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Walking Taco Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. To freeze, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until hot. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, depending on the portion size.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
   Yes, ground turkey or chicken works perfectly in this casserole and is a leaner alternative to ground beef.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Just bake it right before serving.
3. Can I use a different type of chips?
   While corn chips are traditional, you can experiment with tortilla chips, nacho chips, or even Doritos for added flavor.
4. What can I serve this casserole with?
   Serve with a side of Mexican rice, a fresh salad, or even guacamole for a complete meal.
5. Can I use a different cheese?
   Absolutely! Try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for different flavors.
6. How can I make this casserole spicier?
   Add diced jalapeños, green chilies, or a spicy salsa to the beef mixture for extra heat.
7. Can I make this casserole without beans?
   Yes, you can skip the beans and add more corn or other vegetables to the casserole if desired.
8. Is this casserole good for meal prepping?
   Yes, this casserole is perfect for meal prepping. Simply store individual portions in airtight containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
9. How do I avoid the chips getting too soggy?
   The key is to layer the chips in between the beef mixture and cheese so they remain crunchy on top. Avoid over-baking, which can cause them to become too soft.
10. Can I add extra veggies?
    Absolutely! Add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.

Conclusion

Walking Taco Casserole is the perfect combination of savory, cheesy, and crunchy textures all baked together in one hearty dish. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and full of flavor, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With its endless topping options and variations, you can make this dish your own. Whether you stick to the classic or add your own twists, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone!

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