WALKING TACO CASSEROLE

WALKING TACO CASSEROLE
# **Walking Taco Casserole: A Fun and Flavorful Twist on a Classic Favorite**

If you’re looking for a fun, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, **Walking Taco Casserole** should be at the top of your list. This creative casserole combines all the delicious elements of a classic walking taco—**seasoned ground beef**, **crispy tortilla chips**, and **cheese**—into a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting a casual get-together, or preparing for a game day feast, this dish is sure to steal the show!

In this article, we’ll show you how to make Walking Taco Casserole, along with tips and variations to help you customize the recipe to your taste.

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### **What Makes Walking Taco Casserole So Special?**

– **Comforting and Hearty**: This casserole is a one-pan meal that includes all the components of a taco bar in a layered, casserole form. It’s filling and satisfying, making it ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings.
– **Customizable**: Just like a taco, you can top your casserole with a variety of ingredients to suit your preferences. From fresh veggies to creamy avocado and zesty salsa, the possibilities are endless.
– **Simple and Quick**: With easy-to-find ingredients and minimal prep work, this casserole comes together quickly, making it a great choice for busy nights or last-minute dinner plans.
– **Fun and Interactive**: Serving Walking Taco Casserole encourages a hands-on, “build-your-own” approach. Let everyone top their serving with their favorite taco toppings, just like they would with a walking taco!

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### **Ingredients for Walking Taco Casserole**

This casserole is made with basic taco ingredients, but the layers and flavors come together in a way that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

#### **For the Casserole:**
– **1 lb ground beef** (or ground turkey/chicken for a lighter option)
– **1 small onion**, finely chopped
– **1 packet taco seasoning** (or homemade taco seasoning, if you prefer)
– **1/2 cup water** (to mix with the taco seasoning)
– **1 can (15 oz) black beans**, drained and rinsed
– **1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies** (like Rotel), undrained
– **1 cup frozen corn kernels** (or fresh corn if you prefer)
– **1 bag (9 oz) tortilla chips**, crushed (use your favorite brand or flavor)
– **2 cups shredded cheddar cheese** (or a blend of your favorite cheeses)
– **1/2 cup sour cream** (optional for layering)
– **1 tablespoon olive oil** (for cooking the beef)

#### **Toppings (Optional but Recommended):**
– **Shredded lettuce**
– **Diced tomatoes**
– **Sliced jalapeños**
– **Chopped green onions**
– **Guacamole or sliced avocado**
– **Salsa**
– **Sour cream**
– **Chopped cilantro**

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### **Instructions for Walking Taco Casserole**

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish or baking dish with non-stick spray or a small amount of olive oil.

2. **Cook the Ground Beef**: In a large skillet, heat the **olive oil** over medium-high heat. Add the **chopped onion** and sauté for about **2-3 minutes** until softened. Add the **ground beef** and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.

3. **Season the Beef**: Once the beef is browned, add the **taco seasoning** and **water** (as directed on the seasoning packet) to the skillet. Stir to combine and simmer for about **2-3 minutes** until the seasoning mixture has thickened and the flavors have melded together.

4. **Add Beans, Tomatoes, and Corn**: Stir in the **black beans**, **diced tomatoes with green chilies**, and **corn**. Cook for an additional **2-3 minutes** until everything is heated through. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

5. **Assemble the Casserole**: Layer the casserole starting with the **crushed tortilla chips**. Spread them evenly across the bottom of the greased casserole dish. Then, pour the beef mixture on top of the chips, spreading it out evenly. **Top** with the **shredded cheese**, ensuring it covers the beef mixture.

6. **Bake the Casserole**: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for **20-25 minutes**, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.

7. **Optional Layer of Sour Cream**: For an extra creamy texture, you can spread a layer of **sour cream** on top of the casserole before baking, or after it comes out of the oven, as a topping.

8. **Serve and Add Toppings**: Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Add your favorite taco toppings like **shredded lettuce**, **sliced avocado**, **salsa**, **jalapeños**, or **chopped cilantro**.

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**Tips for the Best Walking Taco Casserole**

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