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Comforting Midwest Loaded Walking Taco Casserole

midwest loaded walking taco casserole - featured image
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A warm, hearty casserole combining seasoned beef, crunchy corn chips, melty cheese, and classic taco toppings, perfect for easy BBQ parties and casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 packet (about 1 oz) taco seasoning mix
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce or mild salsa
  • 6 oz Fritos corn chips or similar sturdy corn chips
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • Optional: 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (for topping)
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (for topping)
  • 1/4 cup sliced green onions (for topping)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for topping)
  • Jalapeño slices or hot sauce (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease your 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it starts to brown, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula.
  3. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring for another 3-4 minutes until onions soften and fragrant.
  4. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef mixture, then pour in 1/2 cup water and the tomato sauce or salsa. Stir well and simmer gently for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Spread half of the corn chips evenly in the baking dish. Spoon half of the beef mixture over the chips, then sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top. Repeat the layers once more: chips, beef, and cheese. If using black beans, scatter them evenly over the beef layers before adding cheese.
  6. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and edges start to crisp.
  7. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Dollop with sour cream or Greek yogurt, then sprinkle diced tomatoes, green onions, cilantro, and jalapeño slices as desired.
  8. Serve warm directly from the baking dish.

Notes

To prevent soggy chips, layer chips between beef and cheese rather than all on the bottom. Add fresh chips on top after baking for extra crunch. Let the casserole rest 5 minutes after baking for easier serving. For gluten-free, use certified gluten-free taco seasoning and chips. Ground turkey or chicken can substitute beef. Dairy-free cheese and sour cream alternatives work well.

Nutrition

Keywords: walking taco casserole, BBQ casserole, easy casserole, taco casserole, midwest recipe, loaded casserole, ground beef casserole, party food

Find it online: https://tastytuck.com/comforting-midwest-loaded-walking-taco-casserole-recipe-for-easy-bbq-parties/