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Easy Cheesy Walking Taco Casserole

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A quick and easy weeknight casserole combining seasoned ground beef, crunchy nacho chips, and melted cheeses for a comforting taco-inspired meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 1 packet taco seasoning or 2 tablespoons homemade blend
  • 1 cup refried beans (optional but recommended)
  • 5 cups nacho corn chips, crushed slightly
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • A handful fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks.
  3. Stir in taco seasoning and ¼ cup water. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until liquid reduces and beef is well coated.
  4. Add refried beans and diced tomatoes with green chilies to the skillet. Stir and heat through for 2-3 minutes.
  5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the crushed nacho chips evenly on the bottom.
  6. Layer half of the beef and bean mixture over the chips.
  7. Sprinkle 1 cup cheddar and ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese over the beef mixture.
  8. Repeat layers with remaining chips, beef mixture, and cheeses.
  9. Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and edges are slightly crisp.
  10. Let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions, dollops of sour cream, and chopped cilantro before serving.

Notes

For extra crispy top, broil for 2 minutes at the end but watch closely to avoid burning. Use crushed nacho chips for best texture. Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Vegetarian versions can use mushrooms, black beans, or tempeh. Store leftovers refrigerated up to 3 days or freeze up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: walking taco casserole, cheesy taco casserole, quick weeknight dinner, easy taco recipe, family dinner, nacho chip casserole

Find it online: https://rowanrecipes.com/easy-cheesy-walking-taco-casserole-recipe-for-quick-weeknight-dinners/