Munching on tacos just got a whole lot easier with this Walking Taco Bake. Imagine all the flavors of your favorite walking tacos, but in a convenient, shareable bake. Perfect for game day, potlucks, or a fuss-free family dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why This Recipe Works
- It combines the convenience of a casserole with the fun, interactive element of walking tacos.
- The layers of flavor from the seasoned beef, creamy beans, and melted cheese create a mouthwatering dish.
- It’s customizable, allowing everyone to top their portion with their favorite taco toppings.
- The recipe is straightforward, using common ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
- It’s a great make-ahead meal, tasting even better the next day.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 bag (10 oz) tortilla chips
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Mixing spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning and 1/4 cup of water, simmering for another 5 minutes until the mixture thickens. Tip: For extra flavor, consider browning the beef with a diced onion and minced garlic.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F. In the baking dish, spread a layer of tortilla chips, followed by the seasoned beef, black beans, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Repeat the layers once more, finishing with a generous topping of shredded cheddar cheese. Tip: Crush the tortilla chips slightly for easier layering and eating.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Bake the dish uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. The edges should be crispy, and the center hot throughout. Tip: For a crispier top, broil the bake for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
Step 4: Add the Toppings
Once out of the oven, immediately dollop with sour cream and sprinkle with green onions and black olives. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set slightly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Walking Taco Bake directly from the dish, allowing everyone to scoop their desired amount onto their plates. Pair with additional toppings like diced avocado, jalapeños, or salsa for extra customization.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to elevate their Walking Taco Bake, consider these advanced tips. First, homemade taco seasoning can significantly enhance the flavor profile compared to store-bought packets. Simply mix together chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne for heat. Second, for a healthier version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef and use baked tortilla chips. Lastly, this dish freezes beautifully. Assemble the bake without the toppings, cover tightly, and freeze. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding the fresh toppings after baking.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or extra beans for a vegetarian version.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture or use hot taco seasoning for those who love heat.
- Breakfast Version: Swap the beef for scrambled eggs and chorizo, topping with salsa and avocado for a breakfast taco bake.
- Seafood Twist: Use seasoned shrimp or fish as the protein, topping with a lime crema and fresh cilantro.
- Low-Carb Option: Substitute the tortilla chips with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the bake up to a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold from the fridge. Just be sure to add the fresh toppings after baking.
What are the best toppings for Walking Taco Bake?
The beauty of this dish is its versatility. Popular toppings include sour cream, guacamole, diced tomatoes, lettuce, and jalapeños. Feel free to get creative and use whatever taco toppings you love.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even pork can be used in place of beef. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly to complement the meat you choose.
Summary
This Walking Taco Bake is a fun, flavorful twist on traditional tacos, perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and highly customizable, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.