A fun twist on the classic walking taco, this Walking Taco Casserole combines all your favorite taco ingredients in a baked casserole dish! It’s a quick and easy dinner that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or for a family weeknight meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning)
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 cup frozen corn kernels (optional)
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 bag (10-12 oz) tortilla chips (crushed)
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce (for garnish)
  • ½ cup diced tomatoes (for garnish)
  • ½ cup sliced green onions (for garnish)
  • Jalapeño slices (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Taco Meat

  1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until the meat is browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
  2. Drain any excess fat from the meat, then stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, frozen corn, and black beans (if using).
  3. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to combine.

Step 2: Layer the Casserole

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. Spread the crushed tortilla chips evenly across the bottom of the dish.
  4. Top with the taco meat mixture, spreading it out evenly.
  5. Sprinkle 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the meat mixture.

Step 3: Bake the Casserole

  1. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  2. Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese on top. Return to the oven for 5 more minutes to melt the cheese.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

  1. Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5 minutes.
  2. Top with a dollop of sour cream, salsa, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, green onions, and optional jalapeños.
  3. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for a Perfect Walking Taco Casserole:

  • Spice it Up: Add some diced green chilies, or top the casserole with spicy salsa or hot sauce if you like more heat.
  • Toppings: Customize the toppings with your favorite taco add-ons like guacamole, olives, or avocado slices.
  • Make it Keto: Use a low-carb tortilla chip alternative to keep it keto-friendly.

Storage:

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the microwave or in the oven to enjoy again!

This Walking Taco Casserole is the perfect easy dinner with all the flavors of a walking taco, packed into a warm, cheesy, baked casserole. 🧀🌮🍴 Enjoy this comforting dish with your favorite taco toppings!