Walking Taco Casserole
There’s something irresistibly fun about a Walking Taco Casserole. It’s a dish that combines the best of taco night with the convenience of a casserole, making it a beloved choice for weeknight dinners and gatherings alike. With layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and crunchy chips, this dish is satisfying and easy to customize, making it a hit with both kids and adults. Prepare to dig into a plateful of deliciousness that brings the flavors of your favorite taco stand right into your home!
Why Cooks Rave About It
The Walking Taco Casserole is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to whip it up quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of textures—from the crunchy Fritos to the creamy cheese—adds a delightful element to every bite. It also invites creativity; you can easily adjust the toppings based on your preferences or seasonal ingredients. Finally, it’s a comfort food that brings joy to the table, making it a great option for family meals or potlucks.
Ingredient List
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 oz. dry taco seasoning
- 4 oz. cream cheese, cubed for ease of mixing
- 4 oz. diced green chilies
- 2 cups Frito corn chips
- 1 cup shredded cheese (suggested: Mexican Blend or Cheddar, extra cheese if desired)
- Chopped Roma tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, and salsa for serving, if desired
Prep & Cook Tools
- Large skillet – for browning the ground beef and mixing ingredients.
- Spatula – to break up the beef and combine everything evenly.
- Baking dish – where your casserole will come together and bake.
- Mixing bowl – for blending the cream cheese and other ingredients.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping the onion and veggies.
Build Walking Taco Casserole Step by Step
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Use a spatula to break up the beef into small pieces as it cooks.
Step 2: Season the Meat
Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess grease if necessary. Stir in the dry taco seasoning and diced green chilies. Mix well to ensure the beef is evenly coated with the seasoning.
Step 3: Add the Cream Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and add the cubed cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and combines with the beef mixture, creating a creamy filling.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a baking dish, spread half of the Frito corn chips evenly across the bottom. Next, spoon the beef and cream cheese mixture over the chips. Top with the remaining Fritos and then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
Step 5: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Walking Taco Casserole warm, garnished with chopped Roma tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, and salsa if desired. Each person can customize their plate, making it a fun and interactive meal.
Season-by-Season Upgrades
- Spring: Add fresh corn and diced bell peppers for a burst of color and flavor.
- Summer: Incorporate diced avocado or mango salsa for a refreshing twist.
- Fall: Mix in pumpkin puree with the beef for a seasonal touch.
- Winter: Top with jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for some extra heat.
Troubleshooting Tips
- If your casserole is too dry, add a splash of beef broth or cream to the mixture before baking.
- For a crunchier topping, add more Fritos just before serving to maintain their texture.
- If you find the flavors too mild, consider adding extra taco seasoning or a sprinkle of chili powder.
- To prevent sticking, lightly grease your baking dish before layering the casserole.
Store, Freeze & Reheat
Leftover Walking Taco Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil; it will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions until hot.
Common Qs About Walking Taco Casserole
Can I make Walking Taco Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture and layer it with the Fritos and cheese, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
If you prefer a lighter protein or want to try something different, ground turkey or shredded chicken work great as substitutes. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
Can I use other types of chips instead of Fritos?
Yes! While Fritos add a fantastic crunch, you can also use tortilla chips or even crushed nacho chips for a different flavor profile.
Is Walking Taco Casserole spicy?
The spice level can be easily adjusted based on the taco seasoning you use and whether you add additional toppings like jalapeños. If you prefer milder flavors, opt for a mild taco seasoning and skip the spicy toppings.
Save & Share
This Walking Taco Casserole recipe deserves a spot in your meal rotation, and sharing it with friends and family is a great way to spread the love. Snap a picture of your delicious creation and tag your favorite food bloggers or share on social media to inspire others to try this delightful dish!
Nothing beats the ease and satisfaction of pulling a bubbly, cheesy casserole from the oven, especially one as fun and versatile as Walking Taco Casserole. With its layers of flavor and endless possibilities for toppings, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready for a meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy!
Walking Taco Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Use a spatula to break up the beef into small pieces as it cooks.
- Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess grease if necessary. Stir in the dry taco seasoning and diced green chilies. Mix well to ensure the beef is evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the cubed cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and combines with the beef mixture, creating a creamy filling.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a baking dish, spread half of the Frito corn chips evenly across the bottom. Next, spoon the beef and cream cheese mixture over the chips. Top with the remaining Fritos and then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Serve your Walking Taco Casserole warm, garnished with chopped Roma tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, and salsa if desired. Each person can customize their plate, making it a fun and interactive meal.
Notes
- Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil; it will keep for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
