Walking Taco Bake combines all the flavors of a taco in a simple, hearty casserole. With layers of seasoned ground beef, cheesy goodness, and crunchy chips, this dish is a fun twist on the classic taco and a great way to feed a crowd. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or need a quick weeknight dinner, this Walking Taco Bake is a guaranteed hit with the whole family!
Ingredients
For the Bake:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel), drained
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or canned)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups crushed tortilla chips
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (optional)
For the Toppings:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- Jalapeño slices (optional)
Equipment
- Large skillet
- 9×9-inch or 9×13-inch baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 6–7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary. - Season the Meat:
Stir in the taco seasoning and follow the instructions on the packet (typically adding water and simmering for a few minutes), or use your own homemade taco seasoning mix. Add the diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, and corn to the skillet. Stir to combine and let simmer for 3–5 minutes until heated through. - Assemble the Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch or 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the crushed tortilla chips evenly at the bottom of the dish. Layer the seasoned beef mixture over the chips, then sprinkle with 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. - Add the Second Layer:
Add another layer of crushed tortilla chips over the cheese and top with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. - Bake:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. - Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions if desired. Serve with sour cream, salsa, sliced olives, and jalapeño slices on the side for topping.
Tips for Success
- For a spicier kick, use hot taco seasoning or add diced jalapeños into the beef mixture.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Make it a full meal by serving with a side of guacamole or a fresh salad.
- Feel free to customize the toppings—shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and avocado would all be great additions!
Walking Taco Bake is the ultimate fun and flavorful casserole, combining the best parts of tacos with the comfort of a baked dish. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a family dinner, casual gathering, or even as a party dish. With its layers of savory beef, cheese, and crunchy tortilla chips, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Walking Taco Bake Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet
- 9x9-inch or 9x13-inch baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- For the Bake:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning or homemade taco seasoning
- 1 can 10 oz diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel), drained
- 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels frozen or canned
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups crushed tortilla chips
- 1/4 cup green onions chopped (optional)
- For the Toppings:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives optional
- Jalapeño slices optional
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 6–7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Season the Meat:
- Stir in the taco seasoning and follow the instructions on the packet (typically adding water and simmering for a few minutes), or use your own homemade taco seasoning mix. Add the diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, and corn to the skillet. Stir to combine and let simmer for 3–5 minutes until heated through.
- Assemble the Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x9-inch or 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the crushed tortilla chips evenly at the bottom of the dish. Layer the seasoned beef mixture over the chips, then sprinkle with 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Add the Second Layer:
- Add another layer of crushed tortilla chips over the cheese and top with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once baked, remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions if desired. Serve with sour cream, salsa, sliced olives, and jalapeño slices on the side for topping.
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