Walking Taco Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Walking Taco Casserole is a fun and hearty meal inspired by the popular walking taco. It’s a deconstructed version of a taco that is served in casserole form, making it easy to serve to a crowd or for a family dinner. This casserole features layers of seasoned ground beef, cheesy goodness, and crunchy tortilla chips, topped with your favorite taco toppings like lettuce, sour cream, salsa, and cheese. It’s a quick and delicious comfort food that brings together all the flavors of a taco in one simple dish.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken for a leaner option)
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 bag (10 oz) tortilla chips (nacho cheese or plain)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (for topping)
• 1/4 cup sliced green onions (optional)
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
• 1/4 cup jalapeño slices (optional)

Optional Add-ins:

• 1/2 cup canned corn (drained)
• 1/2 cup black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1/2 cup sliced avocado (for topping)
• Salsa (for topping)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ground Beef:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.
3. Once the beef is cooked through, drain any excess fat, and then add the taco seasoning and water. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until the seasoning is well incorporated and the mixture is heated through.

2. Assemble the Casserole:

1. In a 9×13-inch casserole dish, spread a layer of tortilla chips at the bottom.
2. Top with half of the seasoned ground beef mixture, then sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese.
3. Add another layer of tortilla chips, then top with the remaining ground beef mixture and the rest of the shredded cheese.

3. Bake:

1. Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

4. Add the Toppings:

1. Once the casserole has cooled slightly, top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, sliced green onions, black olives, jalapeños, and avocado slices, if using.
2. Serve with salsa on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

History

Walking tacos, also known as “Taco in a Bag,” originated as a popular fair or stadium food, served in a small bag of chips that could be eaten on the go. This recipe takes the concept of the walking taco—ground beef, chips, cheese, and toppings—and transforms it into a casserole that’s easy to make for a family dinner or large gathering. It’s a modern twist on the taco, offering all the same familiar flavors, but in a more convenient, shareable form.

Health Benefits

• Protein-rich: Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Using leaner meats like ground turkey or chicken can reduce the fat content while still providing ample protein.
• Rich in Fiber: Adding ingredients like black beans, corn, and lettuce boosts the fiber content of the dish, supporting digestive health and keeping you full longer.
• Vitamins and Minerals: The toppings, such as tomatoes, lettuce, and avocado, provide essential vitamins, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.
• Customizable for Dietary Needs: This recipe can be easily adapted for various dietary preferences or restrictions, such as using gluten-free chips, dairy-free cheese, or adding more vegetables for added nutrients.

Nutrition (per serving, based on 8 servings)

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fat: 22g
• Sugars: 4g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sodium: 700mg

Note: Nutrition values may vary depending on ingredient quantities and specific brands used.

Conclusion

Walking Taco Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—it’s easy to make, full of flavor, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a game night, feeding a hungry family, or just craving something hearty, this casserole is sure to hit the spot. With layers of seasoned beef, crunchy tortilla chips, and melty cheese, it’s the perfect dish to serve for a fun and satisfying meal. Don’t forget to top it off with your favorite taco toppings for a burst of freshness and flavor!

Lovers of the Dish

This casserole is perfect for taco lovers, busy families, and anyone who enjoys simple yet delicious comfort food. It’s especially great for those who love customizing their meals with a variety of toppings. The Walking Taco Casserole is a favorite for potlucks, game nights, and casual gatherings, as it’s easy to make and always a hit with both kids and adults.

Feel free to make adjustments to the toppings and add-ins based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Enjoy this flavorful, fun, and filling dish!