Preparing Walking Taco Bake is simple and enjoyable. Follow these straightforward steps for a delicious outcome:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot when you’re ready to bake.
2. Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add Seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning along with one cup of water. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
4. Layer Chips: In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer the crushed tortilla chips as the base.
5. Add Meat Mixture: Pour the seasoned meat mixture evenly over the chips.
6. Add Cheese: Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the meat layer.
7. Include Sour Cream and Salsa: Dollop the sour cream and spread the salsa evenly over the cheese layer.
8. Tomatoes and Onions: Add diced tomatoes and green onions as the next layer, enhancing both color and flavor.
9. Final Cheese Layer: Top everything off with the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
10. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
11. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and, if desired, sprinkle with fresh cilantro and sliced black olives. Let it cool slightly before serving.

These steps will lead you to create a savory and satisfying Walking Taco Bake that the whole family will crave again and again.