Name: Walking Taco Bake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken for a leaner option); 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning); 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (optional for extra spice); 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack); 1 bag (10-12 oz) tortilla chips; 1 cup lettuce, shredded (for topping); 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (for topping); 1/4 cup sliced green onions (for topping); Jalapeños (optional, for added heat); Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

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Walking Taco Bake is a fun, flavorful, and easy casserole dish that combines all the best elements of a classic walking taco into a warm, satisfying meal. With layers of seasoned ground beef, crunchy tortilla chips, zesty taco toppings, and melted cheese, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or Taco Tuesdays—offering all the delicious flavors of a taco in a casserole form!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Walking Taco Bake is a great way to enjoy all the flavors of a walking taco without the mess. This one-pan dish is packed with seasoned ground beef, beans, and cheese, and topped with crispy tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch. It’s easy to make, comforting, and highly customizable. Plus, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or making ahead for meal prep. With all the classic taco flavors and textures, it’s an instant family favorite.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken for a leaner option)
1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (optional for extra spice)
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
1 bag (10-12 oz) tortilla chips
1 cup lettuce, shredded (for topping)
1/2 cup diced tomatoes (for topping)
1/4 cup sliced green onions (for topping)
Jalapeños (optional, for added heat)
Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or oil.
Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Season the Beef: Add the taco seasoning to the cooked beef along with 1/4 cup of water (or as directed on the seasoning packet). Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes until the seasoning is well incorporated.
Add Beans and Tomatoes: Stir in the black beans and diced tomatoes with green chilies (if using). Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Assemble the Bake: Layer the bottom of the prepared baking dish with a layer of tortilla chips. Spoon the beef and bean mixture evenly over the chips. Top with a generous amount of shredded cheese.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, green onions, jalapeños, and fresh cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Vegetarian: Skip the meat and add extra beans (such as black beans, pinto beans, or refried beans), along with vegetables like bell peppers and corn, for a vegetarian version.
Cheese Variations: Use any cheese blend you like. Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a sharp cheddar are great options for added flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a can of diced green chilies to the beef mixture to turn up the heat.
Taco Toppings: Add extra toppings like salsa, guacamole, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, cover the bake with foil and heat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

Walking Taco Bake

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef and bean mixture and assemble the dish the night before. Keep it covered in the fridge, then bake it the next day when you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I use other types of beans?

Yes! You can swap black beans for pinto beans, kidney beans, or even refried beans for a different texture and flavor.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free tortilla chips and check the taco seasoning packet to make sure it’s gluten-free.

4. Can I use store-bought salsa instead of diced tomatoes?

Yes, store-bought salsa works well in place of diced tomatoes, and it will add extra flavor to the dish.

5. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

6. Can I freeze the Walking Taco Bake?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to cook, bake it directly from frozen at 375°F for about 30-35 minutes.

7. Can I use a different type of chip?

Yes! While tortilla chips are traditional, you can use nacho chips, corn chips, or even tortilla strips for a different texture.

8. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Skip the ground beef and load the dish with extra beans and vegetables like corn, bell peppers, and zucchini for a delicious vegetarian version.

9. Can I make this recipe spicier?

Yes, you can add extra jalapeños, spicy taco seasoning, or even a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture to increase the heat.

10. What can I serve with this dish?

Walking Taco Bake pairs perfectly with a side of Mexican rice, a simple salad, or some fresh guacamole and chips.

Conclusion

Walking Taco Bake is an easy, customizable, and delicious meal that brings all the classic taco flavors into one comforting casserole. Whether you’re making it for Taco Tuesday, a family dinner, or a casual gathering, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone. With its layers of savory beef, beans, cheese, and crunchy tortilla chips, it’s a fun and filling way to enjoy tacos without the mess. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and can be adapted to suit any taste!