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Walking Taco Bake

Walking Taco Bake

Easy Walking Taco Bake is a quick and family-friendly casserole that combines seasoned ground beef, refried beans, crunchy tortilla chips, melted cheddar cheese, and fresh toppings into one delicious dish. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering a fun and hearty twist on classic walking tacos.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning

Beans and Vegetables

  • 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes with green chiles
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped

Crunchy Elements

  • 2 cups crumbled tortilla chips

Dairy

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional, for serving)

Optional Garnishes

  • Sliced olives
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Diced avocado

Instructions

  1. Cook and Season the Meat: Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook until no longer pink, then drain excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning with a splash of water and simmer for a few minutes to develop flavors.
  2. Prepare the Base Layer: In a baking dish, spread an even layer of refried beans mixed with diced tomatoes and green chiles to create a creamy, flavorful base.
  3. Add the Meat and Chips: Sprinkle the cooked, seasoned ground beef evenly over the bean layer. Generously scatter crushed tortilla chips on top to add a crunchy texture.
  4. Top with Cheese and Bake: Cover the entire dish with shredded cheddar cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove the bake from the oven and let it cool slightly. Top with your favorite garnishes such as chopped green onions, sliced olives, sour cream, or fresh cilantro. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use fresh tortilla chips added just before baking to maintain their crunch.
  • Watch the bake closely to avoid overbaking and drying out the dish.
  • Layer ingredients evenly for the best flavor combination in every bite.
  • Mix a little salsa or tomato sauce into the beans to add moisture and prevent dryness.
  • Let the bake rest a few minutes before serving so it sets and is easier to scoop.

Nutrition

Keywords: walking taco bake, easy taco casserole, family-friendly dinner, quick Mexican bake, ground beef casserole, gluten-free taco bake