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**Walking Taco Casserole – A Fun and Flavorful Twist on a Classic Favorite**
**Walking Taco Casserole** takes the popular idea of walking tacos (those individually packaged bags of chips filled with taco toppings) and turns it into a warm, cheesy casserole that’s perfect for serving a crowd. The layers of seasoned beef, crunchy chips, gooey cheese, and fresh toppings make this dish a surefire hit every time. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite taco toppings!
### Why You’ll Love Walking Taco Casserole
– **Kid-Friendly:** The combination of ground beef, cheese, and crunchy chips is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
– **Customizable:** You can easily tailor this casserole to your preferences, whether you want to add more veggies, switch up the meat, or add extra spice.
Now that we know why this casserole is such a hit, let’s dive into the recipe.
– **1 lb ground beef** (or turkey, for a lighter version)
– **1 packet taco seasoning** (or homemade taco seasoning, if preferred)
– **1 can (15 oz) black beans**, drained and rinsed (optional for extra fiber)
– **1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies** (or just diced tomatoes if you prefer less heat)
– **1 can (6 oz) tomato paste**
– **2 cups shredded cheddar cheese** (or a blend of Mexican cheese)
– **1 bag (8-10 oz) tortilla chips** (use your favorite brand; crushed lightly)
– **1 cup sour cream** (optional for topping)
– **Chopped green onions** (optional for garnish)
– **Sliced jalapeños** (optional for an extra kick)
– **Shredded lettuce** (optional for garnish)
– **Salsa** (optional for serving)
#### Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to **375°F (190°C)**. Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish or spray it with non-stick cooking spray for easy cleanup.
#### Step 2: Brown the Meat
In a large skillet, brown the **ground beef** (or turkey) over medium heat until fully cooked. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat.
#### Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
In the prepared casserole dish, spread a layer of the **crushed tortilla chips** at the bottom. Top the chips with the seasoned meat mixture, spreading it evenly over the chips.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle **shredded cheddar cheese** (or your preferred cheese blend) evenly over the meat mixture, making sure to cover it completely. The cheese will melt and create a deliciously gooey topping.