How to Make Walking Taco Casserole – A Crowd-Pleasing Family Meal

Walking Taco Casserole brings all the flavor and fun of classic walking tacos into a cozy, easy-to-make baked dish. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner—simple, satisfying, and easy to customize. This healthier version skips the heaviness but keeps the bold Tex-Mex flavors you love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tex-Mex Comfort: All the taco flavor you crave in a warm, layered casserole.
Healthier Ingredients: Lean ground meat, light cheese, and baked chips keep it balanced.
One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup and great for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
Customizable: Top it your way with veggies, salsa, or light sour cream.

Ingredients

Main Casserole

• 1 lb lean ground turkey or beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet low-sodium taco seasoning
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 1 cup salsa
• 1 cup reduced-fat shredded Mexican cheese blend
• 2 cups baked tortilla chips, lightly crushed

Optional Toppings

• Shredded lettuce
• Diced tomatoes
• Chopped green onions
• Jalapeño slices
• Non-fat Greek yogurt or light sour cream

Instructions

Cook the Base

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a large skillet, cook the ground meat and onions over medium heat until browned.
• Stir in garlic, taco seasoning, and water. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
• Add beans, corn, and salsa. Stir to combine and remove from heat.

Layer the Casserole

• In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the crushed chips in an even layer.
• Spoon the meat mixture over the chips and spread evenly.
• Sprinkle cheese over the top.
• Bake uncovered for 15–18 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Add Final Touches

• Top with remaining crushed chips just before serving for maximum crunch.
• Garnish with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and a dollop of yogurt or sour cream.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 280
• Carbs: 22g
• Protein: 23g
• Fat: 11g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 4g

Tips for Success

• Use Lean Meat: Opt for lean ground turkey or beef to reduce fat.
• Don’t Add Chips Too Early: Add the final layer of chips just before serving to keep them crispy.
• Customize to Taste: Add jalapeños, avocado, or use hot salsa for a spicy kick.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.

Why This Recipe Works

• Quick & Easy: Simple steps and easy ingredients make this a weeknight hero.
• Balanced & Filling: Protein-packed with fiber-rich beans and veggies.
• Crowd Pleaser: Great for game nights, family dinners, or potlucks.

Walking Taco Casserole takes the street food classic and transforms it into a hearty, healthier dish the whole family will love. Packed with flavor and loaded with textures, it’s a go-to comfort meal that’s easy to prep and even easier to devour.