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Easy Cheesy Walking Taco Casserole Recipe Perfect for Family Dinners

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A quick and easy casserole that captures the fun and flavor of walking tacos with a cheesy, baked twist. Perfect for family dinners and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup tomato sauce (240 ml)
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup sweet corn (frozen or canned, about 150 g)
  • About 4 cups crushed tortilla chips (120 g), divided
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (200 g)
  • Green onions or fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
  • Sour cream (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, breaking the meat apart with a spatula. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent, about 8–10 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and taco seasoning. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, making sure the beef is evenly coated.
  4. Pour in the tomato sauce and stir in the drained black beans and corn. Cook for another 3–4 minutes until heated through and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, gently fold the beef mixture together with about 3 cups (90 g) of crushed tortilla chips.
  6. Transfer the mixture into your prepared 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Finally, sprinkle the remaining crushed tortilla chips (about 1 cup / 30 g) for an extra crunchy topping.
  7. Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
  8. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle sliced green onions or fresh cilantro on top and offer sour cream on the side for dolloping.

Notes

Drain the beef well to avoid excess grease making the casserole watery. Reserve some crushed tortilla chips to sprinkle on top for extra crunch. Use a good melting cheese like sharp cheddar or a blend with Monterey Jack. Let the casserole rest before serving to firm up. You can prepare the beef mixture ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake. For gluten-free, ensure taco seasoning and chips are certified gluten-free.

Nutrition

Keywords: walking taco casserole, cheesy casserole, ground beef casserole, family dinner, quick dinner, easy casserole, taco casserole

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