Walking Taco Bake

Main Body

Ingredients and Preparation

Creating the Walking Taco Bake requires a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. You will need a pound of ground beef, a packet of taco seasoning, a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, and a bag of your favorite tortilla chips. Additionally, you’ll want to have shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions on hand for the toppings. These ingredients come together to create a flavorful and satisfying dish.

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven is warming up, brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Once the beef is no longer pink, drain any excess fat. Add the taco seasoning and diced tomatoes with green chilies to the beef, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

Assembling the Taco Bake

Once your beef mixture is ready, it’s time to assemble the bake. Start by spreading a layer of crushed tortilla chips in the bottom of a baking dish. The chips provide that essential crunchy texture that makes this dish so satisfying. Next, layer the beef mixture over the chips, making sure to spread it evenly. Top the beef with a generous amount of shredded cheese. The cheese will melt and create a deliciously gooey topping that holds everything together.

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The aroma that fills your kitchen will be tantalizing, hinting at the delicious meal to come. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This brief cooling period helps the layers set, making it easier to serve.

Serving Suggestions

The Walking Taco Bake is versatile and can be customized with your favorite toppings. Common additions include dollops of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped green onions, and even a handful of sliced jalapeños for those who enjoy a bit of heat. You might also consider adding a side of guacamole or salsa to complement the dish. Serving a fresh salad or a simple corn dish alongside can also balance out the meal.

For a fun twist, serve the bake directly from the dish at the table, allowing everyone to help themselves. Alternatively, you can scoop portions into individual bowls, making it easier for guests to add their preferred toppings. This flexibility makes it a great choice for feeding a crowd, as each person can customize their serving to their taste.