Walking Taco Casserole

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 6-8

Difficulty Level: Easy

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 packet taco seasoning mix
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
• 1 cup salsa
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup sliced black olives
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 bag (8 oz) tortilla chips
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook Ground Beef:
   • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Add Aromatics:
   • Add chopped onion to the skillet with the cooked beef. Sauté until the onion is softened.
4. Season with Taco Mix:
   • Stir in the taco seasoning mix and water. Simmer for a few minutes until the mixture thickens and is well combined.
5. Add Beans and Corn:
   • Mix in the black beans and corn kernels, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
6. Layer in Casserole Dish:
   • Transfer the beef and bean mixture to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. Top with Salsa and Cheese:
   • Pour salsa over the beef mixture and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
8. Bake in the Oven:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Prepare Toppings:
   • While the casserole is baking, chop the lettuce, tomatoes, and black olives. Have sour cream ready.
10. Crush Tortilla Chips:
    • Crush the tortilla chips inside the bag, creating bite-sized pieces.
11. Serve:
    • Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven. Top it with crushed tortilla chips, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, and dollops of sour cream.
12. Garnish:
    • Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
13. Enjoy Your Walking Taco Casserole!
    • Serve immediately, and enjoy the flavors of a walking taco in a convenient casserole form.

Note:

• Customize the toppings to suit your taste. Guacamole, jalapeños, or green onions are excellent additions.
• Ensure the taco seasoning mix is suitable for your preferred spice level.
• This casserole is great for parties or gatherings, providing a fun and interactive way to enjoy taco flavors.