Walking Taco Casserole Recipe

Let me take you on a cheesy, crunchy trip to Flavor Town as we dive into this taco fiesta casserole—it’s basically all your taco dreams coming true in one epic dish.

I adore making meals that present a whimsical take on the well-loved flavors of classic dishes, and my Walking Taco Casserole does just that. It marries the always alluring flavor of ground beef sautéed and seasoned to perfection with taco seasoning, and it mingles that with black beans and tomatoes with green chilies for a medley of proteins that makes this dish sing (and it’s got enough protein to practically do the cha-cha!).

Maybe it’s the combination of crunchy corn chips and ooey-gooey, melty Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses that makes it so irresistible, but y’all, I am here for that texture contrast this dish offers. Topping it with sour cream and fresh herbs like cilantro just takes it over the edge and adds a brightness that makes this not just a taco casserole but a delicious balanced meal.

Casserole? Yes.

Delicious taco? Also yes.

Walking Taco Casserole Recipe Ingredients

• Ground Beef: High in protein, provides rich flavor, and satisfies hunger.
• Black Beans: Packed with fiber and protein, adds heartiness and texture.
• Cheddar Cheese: Offers calcium, creamy texture, and cheesy flavor.
• Crushed Corn Chips: Adds crunch, provides carbohydrates, and a hint of saltiness.
• Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: Adds freshness, vitamin C, and a spicy kick.

Walking Taco Casserole Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup water
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 2 cups crushed corn chips (such as Fritos)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced jalapeños

How to Make this Walking Taco Casserole Recipe

1. Set your oven to 350 °F (175 °C) to warm up.

2. In a big frying pan, over medium heat, brown the ground beef. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain the fat and continue with your recipe.

3. Combine the beef with the taco seasoning and water. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, until thickened.

4. Add the drained black beans and the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies. Heat for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through.

5. In a 9″x13″ inch baking dish, layer evenly across the bottom the crushed corn chips.

6. Carefully layer the beef mixture over the corn chips, spreading it as evenly as you can.

7. Distribute the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the beef mixture.

8. Place in the oven that has been heated to the desired temperature for approximately 15 minutes or until you see that the cheese has turned into a melty pool and is starting to bubble.

9. Take out the casserole from the oven. Allow it to cool for a short time before you put on the toppings.

10. Before serving, place spoonfuls of sour cream over the casserole and scatter chopped green onions and cilantro atop the dish. If you’re using any of the optional toppings—diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, or sliced jalapeños—now is the time to add them. These garnishings not only make the casserole look more appealing but also add a pop of flavor, making it even more delicious.

Walking Taco Casserole Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Large frying pan
3. Stove
4. Spatula or wooden spoon
5. Colander or strainer
6. Measuring cup
7. Can opener
8. 9″x13″ baking dish
9. Kitchen knife
10. Cutting board
11. Mixing spoon
12. Serving spoon

FAQ

• What type of ground beef should I use?Choose ground beef that contains 15-20% fat to guarantee that the finished dish is tasty without being too greasy.
• Can I substitute the ground beef?Substituting ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option is perfectly fine.
• Is there an alternative to corn chips?Indeed, you can opt for tortilla chips or Doritos to achieve a distinct taste and texture.
• Can I make this dish vegetarian?Yes, indeed! Substitute the ground beef for a meat replacement or more beans for a version that’s all veg.
• How can I make it spicier?Increase the jalapeños, select a hotter taco seasoning, or use the spicy version of diced tomatoes with green chilies.
• Will this recipe work in advance?The meat and bean mixture can be prepared ahead of time, but maintain the texture by adding the corn chips and cheese just prior to baking.
• How should leftovers be stored?Keep uneaten food in the fridge for no longer than 3 days. Store it in an airtight container. It is best reheated in the oven, but the microwave will work in a pinch. Add fresh corn chips when serving to maintain the crunch factor.

Walking Taco Casserole Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Mince beef: Use minced turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Taco spice mix: Make your own taco spice mix with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt.
Pinto beans: Use black beans instead for a different take on flavor.
Crushed tortilla chips or similar products: The closest substitutes in terms of taste and texture to crushed corn chips are crushed tortilla chips or Doritos.
Greek yogurt: For a healthier substitute, try Greek yogurt. It works even better than plain yogurt in most recipes because it’s thicker and tangier.

Pro Tips

1. Toast the Chips: For added crunch and flavor, spread the crushed corn chips on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 5 minutes at 350 °F before using them in the casserole. This can enhance their texture and taste.