Elevate Your Taco Game with Walking Taco Casserole
Tacos are a beloved classic, but have you ever considered taking them to a whole new level? Introducing our mouthwatering Walking Taco Casserole, a flavor-packed twist that’ll leave your taste buds dancing! Let’s dive into the culinary magic.
Unveiling the Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef
- Taco Seasoning (see homemade recipe below or use a packet)
- 1 can Rotel tomatoes and chilis (Chipotle version for an extra kick)
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 5 oz enchilada sauce (half of a 10 oz can)
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- Your favorite taco toppings (lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, cilantro, sour cream)
Walking Taco Homemade Seasoning:
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Crafting Culinary Excellence
- Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating the oven to 350 degrees. Meanwhile, prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by generously spraying it with cooking spray.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown 1 pound of ground beef. While it sizzles, concoct a quick Walking Taco Homemade Seasoning by combining 2 tsp chili powder, ½ tsp salt, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp onion powder, and ½ tsp smoked paprika. Season the beef to your liking.
- Simmer and Combine: Introduce the undrained can of Chipotle Rotel tomatoes for a spicy twist. Allow the liquid to evaporate, then add drained and rinsed black beans. Stir in 2 oz of softened cream cheese until melted, followed by 5 oz of enchilada sauce. Remove from heat.
- Layering Brilliance: In your prepared baking dish, layer Fritos at the base. Spoon half of the beef and bean mixture over the chips, add a layer of shredded cheese, more chips, the remaining beef mixture, and a final flourish of cheese.
- Bake to Perfection: Pop your creation into the 350-degree oven for 15-20 minutes until the cheese achieves gooey perfection, and the casserole is heated through.
- Top it Off: As the finishing touch, crown your masterpiece with shredded lettuce, tomatoes, chopped red onions, cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream.
Conclusion
In just a few simple steps, you’ve transformed the ordinary into the extraordinary. Our Walking Taco Casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds sing. Elevate your taco game today!