Walking Taco Casserole is the perfect way to enjoy the beloved taco flavors in casserole form. Packed with seasoned ground beef, crunchy chips, cheese, and all your favorite taco toppings, this dish is as fun as it is delicious. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s great for family dinners, potlucks, or game day!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
It’s the perfect mix of textures—crunchy chips and cheesy, meaty goodness
It’s easy to make and can be prepped ahead of time
You can customize it with your favorite taco toppings
This dish has everything you love about tacos in one pan
Ingredients
Here’s a quick look at the main ingredients. For the full ingredient list with measurements, check the recipe card below.
- Ground beef or turkey
- Taco seasoning
- Tortilla chips
- Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Sour cream and salsa (for topping)
Directions
Cook the Meat
In a skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey until browned. Drain any excess fat and stir in the taco seasoning with a little water, as directed on the seasoning packet.
Layer the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a baking dish, spread a layer of crushed tortilla chips. Top with the seasoned meat mixture and then sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese.
Bake It
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Add Toppings and Serve
Once the casserole is done, top with your favorite taco toppings—sour cream, salsa, diced avocado, or fresh cilantro.
Expert Tips and Tricks
Crush the chips just enough to create a nice layer, but don’t pulverize them into crumbs.
If you prefer a spicier dish, add some diced jalapeños to the meat mixture or sprinkle them on top before baking.
For a creamier casserole, drizzle some ranch dressing or extra sour cream on top before serving.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
Use ground chicken or plant-based meat for a lighter option.
Add beans: Black beans or refried beans can be layered in between the chips and meat for added texture.
Make it vegetarian: Skip the meat and add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and corn.
Try different chips: Use flavored tortilla chips (like lime or chili) for an extra kick.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve your Walking Taco Casserole with a side of Mexican rice, a simple salad, or some guacamole and tortilla chips. For drinks, pair it with a cold beer, limeade, or iced tea.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If the chips lose their crunch, consider adding a fresh batch of chips on top when reheating.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
What can I use if I don’t have tortilla chips?
You can use any other crunchy chips, like nacho chips or even Fritos for a fun twist.
Can I freeze Walking Taco Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking for up to 2 months. Just bake it from frozen, but add some extra time in the oven.
Can I add more toppings?
Absolutely! You can add diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or shredded lettuce for extra flavor and crunch.
Conclusion
Walking Taco Casserole is everything you love about tacos, but in casserole form. It’s easy, cheesy, and customizable to your taste. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or bringing it to a party, this dish is sure to be a hit! Try it out—you won’t be disappointed!
Print
Walking Taco Casserole
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
This Walking Taco Casserole combines all the flavors of your favorite walking tacos into a hearty, cheesy casserole. Layers of seasoned ground beef, tortilla chips, beans, cheese, and sour cream create a deliciously easy dinner the whole family will love. Serve it with extra toppings for a customizable meal!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 2 cups tortilla chips, crushed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
- Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, extra sour cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Mixture:
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Once cooked, drain any excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet, cooking until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and black beans. Let simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spread a layer of crushed tortilla chips on the bottom.
- Pour the beef and bean mixture over the chips, spreading evenly.
- Top with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to lightly brown the cheese.
- Serve:
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.
- Top with sour cream and green onions. Add any additional toppings like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or cilantro. Serve warm.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or use spicy taco seasoning.
- Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- You can make this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it with foil and bake when you’re ready.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 60mg