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Walking Taco Bake

Walking Taco Bake
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The Walking Taco Bake is a quick, comforting casserole that brings together all your favorite walking taco ingredients—savory seasoned ground beef, crunchy taco chips, melty shredded cheese, refried beans, and fresh diced tomatoes. Baked to gooey perfection and easily customizable, this one-dish meal is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, and taco lovers craving a fuss-free yet flavorful dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (about 2 tbsp)
  • 2 cups crushed taco chips (freshly crushed recommended)
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and Monterey Jack recommended)
  • 1 cup refried beans
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Optional Toppings

  • Sour cream
  • Sliced jalapeños
  • Chopped green onions
  • Diced avocado
  • Fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Brown the ground beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat, then add taco seasoning and a splash of water. Stir well to evenly coat the beef with spices.
  2. Prepare aromatics and beans: In the same skillet, sauté diced onion and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant. Stir in the refried beans and combine thoroughly with the beef mixture to create a rich, hearty filling.
  3. Assemble the bake: Spread a layer of crushed taco chips evenly in a baking dish to form the crunchy base. Pour the beef and bean mixture over the chips, then sprinkle diced tomatoes on top. Finish by generously covering everything with shredded cheese to ensure a melty, gooey finale.
  4. Bake and enjoy: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the casserole for about 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving, then add your preferred toppings such as sour cream, jalapeños, or green onions.

Notes

  • Use fresh crushed taco chips right before assembling for the best texture and to keep them crispy longer.
  • Always drain excess beef grease after cooking to prevent sogginess and achieve a lighter bake.
  • Toast taco seasoning spices separately before mixing to intensify the taco flavors if desired.
  • Mix two types of cheese for a richer flavor and gooier texture; cheddar and Monterey Jack work great.
  • Allow the bake to rest a few minutes after removing from the oven for easier slicing and serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: walking taco bake, taco casserole, quick dinner, family meal, easy taco recipe, gluten free taco bake, healthy taco bake

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/walking-taco-bake/