Craving a dish that combines the fun of a taco with the heartiness of a casserole? Look no further than walking taco casserole! This delightful dish layers all your favorite taco ingredients into a warm, cheesy masterpiece that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Easy to prepare and even easier to customize, this casserole is sure to be a hit at your next gathering or family meal.
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 2 cups crushed tortilla chips
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup salsa
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 green onions, sliced
– Jalapeños (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 6 servings, with a preparation time of 15 minutes and a cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/6 of the casserole) contains approximately:
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 25g
– Fat: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 35g
– Fiber: 5g
This nutritional information is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
3. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
4. Stir in the taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and salsa; cook for 5 minutes.
5. In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread half of the crushed tortilla chips.
6. Layer half of the beef mixture over the chips.
7. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
8. Repeat the layers with the remaining chips, beef mixture, and cheese.
9. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
10. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and bubble.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter option. You can also use fresh vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition. Additionally, gluten-free tortilla chips can be used to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Serving and Pairings
Walking taco casserole pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh guacamole, a green salad, or additional tortilla chips. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for extra flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions until heated through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the beef can lead to a dry texture.
- Not layering the ingredients evenly may result in uneven flavors.
- Skipping the foil cover can cause the cheese to burn.
- Using too much salsa can make the casserole watery.
- Not preheating the oven can affect cooking times.
Helpful Tips
- Use pre-shredded cheese for convenience.
- Customize by adding your favorite taco toppings.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.
- Experiment with different types of beans for unique flavors.
FAQs
Can I make walking taco casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole and assemble it a day in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Adjust the cooking time if it’s chilled.
What can I use instead of tortilla chips?
If you prefer a healthier option, you can use baked tortilla strips or even crushed corn flakes for a crunchy topping.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Walking taco casserole holds up well in the fridge and is easy to reheat, making it a great choice for meal prep.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the meat and add more beans, vegetables, or even some quinoa for protein.
What toppings can I add to the casserole?
Popular toppings include diced tomatoes, olives, avocado, or any of your favorite taco toppings for added freshness and flavor.
Conclusion
Walking taco casserole is not only a delicious and filling meal, but it also brings the fun of a taco night to your dinner table. With its layers of flavor and easy preparation, this dish is a must-try for taco lovers and a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Enjoy making this comforting dish that everyone will love!
Walking Taco Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 15 oz corn, drained
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 2 cups crushed tortilla chips
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 green onions sliced
- Jalapeños optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and salsa; cook for 5 minutes.
- In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the crushed tortilla chips.
- Layer half of the beef mixture over the chips.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining chips, beef mixture, and cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and bubble.
