Walking Taco Bake: The Ultimate Taco Casserole Recipe
Introduction to Walking Taco Bake
Walking Taco Bake is a delightful dish that brings the fun of a taco truck right into your home. This easy-to-make casserole combines all your favorite taco ingredients in a warm, cheesy embrace, making it a perfect meal for family dinners or casual get-togethers. With its crunchy corn chip layer and savory beef filling, every bite is bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a taco lover or just looking for a quick meal solution, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
A Personal Story Behind My Walking Taco Bake Journey
The first time I made Walking Taco Bake was during a family reunion, where we were searching for a simple yet delicious dish that everyone would enjoy. I wanted something that would remind us of our childhood taco nights while also being easy to prepare. This casserole quickly became a hit among the family, sparking laughter and memories of our taco adventures. It’s now a go-to recipe that brings joy to our gatherings and fills our bellies with comfort.
What Makes This Walking Taco Bake Recipe Special?
What sets this Walking Taco Bake apart is its versatility and ease of preparation. You can customize the toppings to suit your taste, whether you prefer fresh pico de gallo, a dollop of sour cream, or a kick of spicy jalapeños. Plus, the combination of seasoned ground beef, hearty beans, and melted cheese makes this dish not only filling but also deeply satisfying. The crunchy corn chips add a fantastic texture, making each bite a delightful experience. It’s a meal that brings everyone together, making it perfect for any occasion.
The Full Walking Taco Bake Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon canola oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 package (1 ounce) taco seasoning
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes and green chiles, undrained
- 1 can (15-1/2 ounces) pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15-1/4 ounces) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 package (9-1/4 ounces) corn chips
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
- Toppings: Sliced green onion, sliced black olives, pico de gallo, sour cream, chopped avocado, guacamole, sliced jalapenos
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the canola oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are tender, about 6-7 minutes. Tip: Stir frequently to ensure even cooking.
- Stir in the taco seasoning mix and the diced tomatoes with green chiles. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. Add the rinsed pinto beans and drained corn to the skillet.
- Layer the corn chips in a greased 13 x 9-inch baking dish. Spoon the taco meat mixture evenly on top. Sprinkle with the shredded cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is bubbly and golden, for about 15-20 minutes.
- Serve hot with your choice of toppings like sliced green onion, black olives, pico de gallo, sour cream, avocado, guacamole, and jalapenos. Tip: Encourage everyone to customize their servings for a fun dining experience!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Walking Taco Bake
Walking Taco Bake is perfect for serving alongside a fresh green salad or some zesty Mexican rice. You can also experiment with different toppings and add-ins. For a vegetarian version, consider using black beans and mushrooms instead of ground beef. If you’re in the mood for a spicier kick, try adding some diced jalapeños to the meat mixture or swapping the regular cheese for pepper jack. This dish is flexible, allowing you to cater to everyone’s tastes!
Frequently Asked Questions About Walking Taco Bake
Can I prepare Walking Taco Bake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the taco meat mixture and layer the corn chips and cheese in advance. Just cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Just note that the corn chips may lose their crunch.
Can I freeze Walking Taco Bake?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. This is a great way to have a meal ready for a busy night!
Enjoy this Walking Taco Bake for a quick, delicious family meal that’s sure to please!
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 450
- Servings: 6
Walking Taco Bake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon canola oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 ounce taco seasoning
- 10 ounces diced tomatoes with green chiles undrained
- 15.5 ounces pinto beans rinsed and drained
- 15.25 ounces whole kernel corn drained
- 9.25 ounces corn chips
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the canola oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are tender, about 6-7 minutes. Tip: Stir frequently to ensure even cooking.
- Stir in the taco seasoning mix and the diced tomatoes with green chiles. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. Add the rinsed pinto beans and drained corn to the skillet.
- Layer the corn chips in a greased 13 x 9-inch baking dish. Spoon the taco meat mixture evenly on top. Sprinkle with the shredded cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is bubbly and golden, for about 15-20 minutes.
- Serve hot with your choice of toppings like sliced green onion, black olives, pico de gallo, sour cream, avocado, guacamole, and jalapenos. Tip: Encourage everyone to customize their servings for a fun dining experience!