Walking Taco Casserole is a fun, easy-to-make dish that combines all the flavors you love in a taco, but in a baked, casserole form. It’s a great option for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings.

ground beef, crunchy corn chips, melty cheese, and fresh toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and sour cream. It’s a dish that brings everyone together, offering that satisfying crunch and flavor in every bite. And if you’re looking to mix things up, this casserole is versatile enough to adapt to your favorite taco toppings. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend party, Walking Taco Casserole is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Large skillet
9×13-inch baking dish
Wooden spoon or spatula
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Aluminum foil

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
1/2 cup water
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
2 cups corn chips (like Fritos)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded lettuce
1 cup diced tomatoes
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
1/4 cup sliced green onions (optional)

Directions

Cook the Ground Beef:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Add Seasoning and Beans:
- Stir in the taco seasoning and water, mixing well. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Add the black beans and diced tomatoes with green chilies, stirring to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Assemble the Casserole:
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of corn chips at the bottom. Pour the beef mixture evenly over the chips. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
Top and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, black olives, and green onions, if desired. Serve warm.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cook Time:

25 minutes

Total Time:

40 minutes

Nutrition (per serving, based on 8 servings):

Calories: 350
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 800mg
Total Carbohydrate: 25g
Dietary Fiber: 5g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 18g

Walking Taco Casserole takes all the delicious elements of a taco and turns them into a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish. With layers of flavor and that irresistible crunch, this casserole is a fun twist on a classic that will quickly become a favorite in your household!