This Walking Taco Casserole is a hearty and delicious twist on a classic favorite. It’s packed with all the flavors of a taco but layered into a comforting casserole. Perfect for family dinners, parties, or a fun weeknight meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Walking Taco Casserole brings all the taco flavors you love into one easy-to-assemble dish. With layers of seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and crunchy Fritos, it’s a perfect combination of textures and flavors. Topped with fresh lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sour cream, each bite is a delightful mix of savory, creamy, and crispy.
Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds ground beef – A great source of protein, making this casserole filling.
1/3 large onion, chopped – Adds savory depth and sweetness to the beef.
1 small can (4 oz) green chilies – A bit of heat and flavor to elevate the dish.
1 (15 oz) can enchilada sauce – A tangy and flavorful base for the beef mixture.
2 ounces cream cheese – Creamy texture that enhances the sauce’s richness.
1 bag Fritos corn chips (9 oz) – Adds a satisfying crunch as the base of the casserole.
1 bag shredded cheese (about 2 cups) – Use a taco blend, cheddar, or your favorite cheese.
3/4 cup shredded lettuce – Freshness and crunch to top the casserole.
1/2 cup diced fresh tomato – Sweet and juicy for a vibrant topping.
16 oz salsa – For serving, adding an extra burst of flavor.
8 oz sour cream – Creamy and tangy, perfect for topping the casserole.
Instructions
Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion. Cook until the beef is fully cooked and the onions are soft, about 6-8 minutes.
Add the Sauce Ingredients:
Stir in the green chilies, enchilada sauce, and cream cheese. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cream cheese has melted and everything is well combined.
Assemble the Casserole:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, start by spreading a layer of Fritos corn chips.
Spoon the meat mixture evenly over the chips, then sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven. Serve individual portions topped with fresh shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, salsa, and a dollop of sour cream.
Pro Tips
Crunchy Chips: For an extra layer of crunch, add some extra Fritos on top just before serving.
Cheese Choices: You can mix different types of cheese like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a taco blend for a custom cheesy topping.
Make it Spicy: Add a few jalapeños or use spicy salsa to increase the heat level of the casserole.
Time and Yield
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 400-450 kcal
Serving Suggestions
This Walking Taco Casserole is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a side of Mexican rice, guacamole, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with extra salsa, jalapeños, and chips for added texture.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Perfect for taco night or any casual gathering, Walking Taco Casserole combines the best parts of a taco and a casserole for a fun, easy-to-make meal. It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love, and the layers of flavor and textures will keep you coming back for more!