Walking Taco Casserole is a playful and delicious reimagining of the classic taco. Inspired by the concept of ‘walking tacos’ – where taco fillings are served inside a bag of chips – this casserole version brings all the beloved flavors of tacos into a convenient and family-friendly dish. Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a fun family dinner, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that combines the ease of a one-dish meal with the zest and excitement of Mexican cuisine.
A Creative Take on Tacos
Walking Taco Casserole layers seasoned ground meat, cheese, and crunchy chips, topped with classic taco garnishes. This dish not only captures the essence of a taco in casserole form but also adds a playful twist that is sure to delight both kids and adults alike. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that brings a new twist to taco night.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet of taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (frozen, canned, or fresh)
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 3 cups crushed tortilla chips
- Optional toppings: chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, sliced olives, jalapeños, green onions, and extra cheese
Instructions:
Preparing the Meat:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook Meat: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until it’s fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
- Add Taco Seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning packet, following the package instructions (usually, this involves adding water and simmering the mixture).
Assembling the Casserole:
- Layer Ingredients: In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the crushed tortilla chips. On top of the chips, spread the cooked meat evenly. Layer the black beans and corn over the meat, and then pour the salsa on top. Sprinkle with half of the cheese.
- Add Final Layers: Add the remaining tortilla chips and cheese on top.
Baking the Casserole:
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Adding Toppings and Serving:
- Top and Serve: After removing the casserole from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Then, add your choice of toppings: chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, olives, jalapeños, and green onions.
- Enjoy: Serve the walking taco casserole warm. It’s best enjoyed with a side of extra salsa, guacamole, or a dollop of sour cream.
Conclusion
Walking Taco Casserole is an exciting and flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for anyone looking to spice up their meal routine. With its layers of crunchy chips, savory meat, melted cheese, and customizable toppings, this casserole is a fun and hearty meal that encapsulates the spirit of a walking taco in a form that’s perfect for sharing. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, this walking taco casserole is sure to be a hit!