Walking Taco Bake Recipe (Detailed Version)

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Walking Taco Bake Recipe (Detailed Version)

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey (choose lean meat to reduce grease, or a mix of beef and turkey for a richer flavor)
  • 1 packet taco seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade; adjust spice level to taste)
  • 2/3 cup water (to mix with seasoning)
  • 2 cups chili cheese Fritos (reserve some for topping if desired)
  • 1/2 can (10.5 oz) cheddar cheese soup (about 5.25 oz; can use nacho cheese soup for extra spice)
  • 1/4 cup milk (whole or 2% works best for creaminess)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or use a taco cheese blend for added flavor)

Optional Toppings:

  • Sour cream
  • Salsa or pico de gallo
  • Guacamole
  • Diced fresh tomatoes
  • Shredded lettuce
  • Sliced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
  • Chopped green onions
  • Black olives

Equipment Needed:

  • Medium skillet
  • Saucepan
  • 8×8 baking dish (can double the recipe for a 9×13 dish)
  • Wooden spoon
  • Aluminum foil (optional, for lining the dish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when the dish is assembled.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Meat

  1. In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil (optional) over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the ground beef or turkey.
  3. Break the meat into small crumbles using a wooden spoon or spatula.
  4. Cook until no pink remains (7-8 minutes).
  5. Drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy dish.
  6. Reduce heat to low, stir in the taco seasoning and 2/3 cup of water, and simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish

  1. Grease the bottom and sides of an 8×8 baking dish with nonstick spray or a light coating of oil.
  2. Spread 1.5 cups of chili cheese Fritos evenly over the bottom to create a crunchy base.

Step 4: Layer the Meat

  1. Spoon the seasoned ground meat evenly over the Fritos, making sure to cover the chips completely.

Step 5: Make the Cheese Sauce

  1. In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 can of cheddar cheese soup and 1/4 cup milk over low heat.
  2. Stir constantly to prevent scorching.
  3. Once the mixture is smooth and warmed through (about 3-4 minutes), pour it evenly over the meat layer.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Optional Crunch

  1. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the cheese sauce layer.
  2. For extra crunch, add a small handful of crushed Fritos on top.

Step 7: Bake the Dish

  1. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
  2. For a slightly crispy cheese top, broil on high for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

  1. Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes to make it easier to slice and serve.
  2. Serve in individual portions and top with your favorite taco toppings for a custom finish.

Pro Tips

  • For added flavor: Stir a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel) into the meat mixture.
  • Customization: Use flavored chips like Cool Ranch Doritos or plain tortilla chips for a different twist.
  • Doubling the recipe: Use a 9×13 pan and double all ingredients for a larger crowd.
  • Vegetarian version: Replace ground meat with cooked lentils, black beans, or plant-based crumbles.

Enjoy your Walking Taco Bake—a perfect combination of crunchy, cheesy, and hearty goodness! 😋

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