Walking Taco Casserole

 

Walking Taco Casserole 

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Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade: 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp salt)
• 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies), drained
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
• 1 cup frozen or canned corn, drained
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• 3 cups crushed tortilla chips or Fritos
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (for topping)
• 1/2 cup shredded lettuce (for topping)
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional for garnish)
• 1/4 cup diced jalapeños (optional for spice)

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Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Cook the ground beef mixture:

   • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is fully browned.
   • Drain any excess grease.
   • Stir in taco seasoning, Rotel tomatoes, corn, and beans. Simmer for 5 minutes to combine flavors.

3. Assemble the casserole:

   • In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spread half of the crushed tortilla chips or Fritos at the bottom.
   • Layer the seasoned beef mixture evenly over the chips.
   • Spread sour cream over the meat mixture for added creaminess.
   • Sprinkle with shredded cheese and top with the remaining chips.

4. Bake:

   • Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Add toppings and serve:

   • Once out of the oven, top with diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, black olives, cilantro, and jalapeños.
   • Serve warm with additional toppings like salsa, guacamole, or more sour cream.

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Tips for Serving:

• Serve with a side of Spanish rice or refried beans for a full meal.
• Customize with your favorite toppings like avocado, hot sauce, or green onions.
• For a low-carb version, swap chips for chopped lettuce and make it a taco salad.

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Enjoy your delicious and easy Walking Taco Casserole—a family favorite that's sure to please!