Walking Taco Bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Under 35 Minutes Total: Seriously, it’s a quick-bake miracle meal that’s perfect for 30-minute dinner goals.
• Minimal Ingredients: Built entirely on affordable pantry and fridge staples.
• Freezer Friendly: The filling is great for meal prepping or freezing for a busy day.
• Ultimate Crunch: That layer of chips stays deliciously crunchy beneath the savory filling.
• Simple Customization: Easily swap the protein or cheese for variety every time you make it.

PREPARATION STEPS

1. Sauté Protein: In a large pot or deep skillet, brown the full pound of ground beef over medium-high heat. Once cooked through, be sure to completely drain off any excess grease or liquid from the pan.
2. Season the Filling: Introduce the two-thirds cup of water and the entire packet of taco seasoning to the browned meat. Mix thoroughly. Allow this mixture to gently simmer on low for approximately five minutes, or until the liquid has been fully absorbed by the ground meat.
3. Establish the Foundation: Take an 8×8 inch square baking dish and create a single, even layer across the bottom using the entire bag of chili cheese corn chips.
4. Add Meat Layer: Distribute the freshly seasoned, simmered meat evenly over the layer of corn chips in the baking vessel.
5. Prepare Sauce: In a separate small saucepan, warm the half-can of condensed cheese soup together with the quarter cup of milk over a low temperature until blended and smooth.
6. Sauce and Cheese: Pour the warm cheese and milk mixture over the top of the meat layer. Finish by evenly sprinkling the full cup of shredded mozzarella cheese across the top surface.
7. Bake: Place the assembled bake into a preheated oven at 350°F. Cook for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
8. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately.

Tips, Variations & Storage

• Tip for Prep: Always use a wooden spoon or spatula to press the chips down gently into the baking dish after pouring the meat over them. This ensures they get coated in the sauce.
• Protein Swap: Ground turkey or chicken works perfectly here if you’re looking for a leaner option; just be sure to season well!
• Cheese Substitution: Try using shredded Pepper Jack or a Mexican blend instead of mozzarella for a stronger flavor profile.
• Add-in Idea: Fold in a can of drained and rinsed black beans or a handful of diced bell peppers to the meat mixture before layering for extra veggies.
• Storage: Once cooled, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.
• Freezer Notes: The fully cooked meat filling is great for freezing! Skip the chips and cheese, freeze the meat, then thaw and assemble the full casserole when ready to bake.