Brace yourself for a flavor fiesta that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to devour. Introducing the Walking Taco Casserole – a Tex-Mex-inspired dish that brings together all the bold flavors of a classic taco in a convenient casserole format. Get ready to take your taste buds on a journey south of the border with this simple yet satisfying recipe.
Whether served at a family dinner, game day gathering, or potluck party, the Walking Taco Casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone lucky enough to taste it. Its bold flavors, comforting textures, and easy preparation make it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
So, why settle for ordinary tacos when you can elevate your Tex-Mex game with the Walking Taco Casserole? With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and crowd-pleasing appeal, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to taste the fiesta – one delicious bite at a time
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning mix
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) corn kernels, drained
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 1 bag (9 ounces) tortilla chips, crushed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional toppings: diced avocado, sliced jalapenos, sour cream, chopped cilantro, salsa
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Brown the Meat: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat, then add the taco seasoning mix and stir to combine. Remove from heat.
2. Layer the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the crushed tortilla chips on the bottom. Next, spread half of the cooked meat mixture over the chips, followed by half of the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and shredded cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, ending with a final layer of cheese on top.
3. Bake to Perfection: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to brown slightly.
4. Serve and Customize: Once baked, remove the Walking Taco Casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve it hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as diced avocado, sliced jalapenos, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or salsa.
5. Enjoy the Fiesta: Dig in and savor the irresistible flavors of this Tex-Mex masterpiece. Each bite is a symphony of savory meat, crunchy tortilla chips, creamy cheese, and zesty toppings – a true celebration for your taste buds.
Adding Your Own Twist:
Feel free to get creative and customize the Walking Taco Casserole to suit your taste preferences. Add extra toppings like diced onions, black olives, or shredded lettuce for a burst of freshness, or swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. The possibilities are endless, so let your imagination run wild.