Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel)
- 1 (15 oz) can of black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can of corn, drained
- 2 cups crushed corn chips (like Fritos)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- ½ cup sliced black olives (optional)
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- Sour cream, for topping
- Salsa, for serving
Introduction:
Walking Taco Bake is a fun and delicious twist on the traditional walking taco. It combines all the flavors you love from tacos—seasoned meat, crunchy corn chips, and fresh toppings—in a convenient baked casserole format. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. It’s easy to prepare and serve, offering the best of both worlds: the comfort of a casserole and the convenience of a walking taco.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or a light coating of oil. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and make it easier to serve.
Step 2: Cook the Meat
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until it is fully browned. Stir occasionally, breaking the meat into crumbles as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess grease from the pan.
Step 3: Add Taco Seasoning
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked meat. Follow the package instructions, typically adding ¾ cup of water to the skillet. Stir the mixture well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes until the liquid reduces and thickens.
Step 4: Add Diced Tomatoes, Beans, and Corn
Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, and corn. Mix everything together until well combined. This mixture will be the hearty base of your walking taco bake, full of vibrant colors and flavors.
Step 5: Assemble the Base Layer
Pour the meat and vegetable mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a smooth base. This layer will provide the savory depth of flavor that complements the crunch of the chips.
Step 6: Add Crushed Corn Chips
Evenly sprinkle the crushed corn chips over the meat mixture. The chips add the signature crunch that mimics the traditional walking taco experience. Make sure the chips cover the entire surface for consistent texture in every bite.
Step 7: Layer the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of the chips. The cheese will melt into a gooey, bubbly topping that ties all the flavors together. You can use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for an extra kick.
Step 8: Bake the Casserole
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. The edges should be slightly golden and crispy.
Step 9: Prepare the Toppings
While the casserole is baking, prepare the fresh toppings. Shred the lettuce, dice the tomatoes, slice the olives, and chop the green onions. These toppings add a fresh contrast to the warm, cheesy bake.
Step 10: Serve the Walking Taco Bake
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Cut the casserole into squares and serve with a spatula. Each serving can be topped with the shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, black olives, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream.
Step 11: Add Extra Flavor
For added flavor, serve with salsa, guacamole, or your favorite taco sauce. You can also drizzle some hot sauce for an extra spicy kick. The combination of warm, cheesy goodness and fresh toppings is irresistible.
Conclusion:
Walking Taco Bake is a crowd-pleaser that combines the convenience of a walking taco with the heartiness of a baked casserole. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized to your family’s preferences, whether you prefer more veggies, different toppings, or alternative proteins. This recipe is sure to become a favorite at gatherings and weeknight dinners.
Additional Tips:
- For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based protein like tofu crumbles.
- You can make this dish ahead of time by assembling it, then refrigerating until you’re ready to bake.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Enjoy your flavorful and easy-to-make Walking Taco Bake!
