Walking Taco Casserole combines all the flavors of the classic walking taco into one hearty, comforting dish. Featuring layers of seasoned beef, creamy enchilada sauce, crispy Fritos, and melty cheese, this casserole is quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family-Friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike, thanks to its bold, cheesy flavors.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite taco toppings to make it your own.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for potlucks, parties, or Taco Tuesday celebrations.
• Minimal Cleanup: Made in a single baking dish for easy cleanup.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 1/3 large onion, chopped
• 1 small can green chilies
• 1 can enchilada sauce
• 2 ounces cream cheese
• 1 bag Fritos corn chips
• 1 bag shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 3/4 cup lettuce, shredded
• 1/2 cup fresh tomato, diced
• 16 ounces salsa
• 8 ounces sour cream

Directions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Add Sauce Ingredients

1. Stir in the green chilies, enchilada sauce, and cream cheese until fully combined and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, create the first layer with Fritos corn chips.
2. Add a layer of the beef mixture, followed by a layer of shredded cheese.
3. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with cheese on top.

Step 4: Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake the casserole for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve with Toppings

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly.
2. Top individual servings with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, salsa, and sour cream as desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or use spicy enchilada sauce.
• Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat.
• Veggie-Packed: Add black beans, corn, or bell peppers to the meat mixture.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace Fritos with crushed pork rinds or keto-friendly tortilla chips.
• Cheese Variety: Try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Colby for a twist on flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze the assembled but unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
• Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

2. Can I use a different type of chip?

Yes, tortilla chips or Doritos are great alternatives to Fritos.

3. How do I prevent the chips from getting soggy?

Layer the chips just before baking or serve them on the side for added crunch.

4. Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, replace the ground beef with black beans, pinto beans, or a plant-based protein.

5. What toppings pair well with this casserole?

Try guacamole, pickled jalapeños, sliced olives, or cilantro.

6. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger baking dish and adjust the layering to fit.

7. What can I serve with this casserole?

Pair with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple salad.

8. Can I use homemade enchilada sauce?

Absolutely! Homemade enchilada sauce will add a fresh, personal touch.

9. What’s the best cheese for this recipe?

A Mexican blend, cheddar, or Monterey Jack work wonderfully.

10. Can I use fresh chilies instead of canned?

Yes, dice and sauté fresh green chilies before adding to the beef mixture.

Conclusion

Walking Taco Casserole is a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dish that brings all the fun of walking tacos into a comforting baked casserole. With its layers of savory beef, crispy chips, and melty cheese, this easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Customize with your favorite toppings, and enjoy this Tex-Mex classic!

Walking Taco Casserole

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• Author: fella
• Prep Time: 15min
• Cook Time: 20min
• Total Time: 35min
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: baking
• Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired

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Description

Try this easy Walking Taco Casserole recipe for a family-friendly dinner! Packed with ground beef, Fritos, and cheese, it’s topped with fresh taco fixings for a fun twist on taco night.

 

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Casserole:

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 1/3 large onion, chopped
• 1 can green chilies (small can)
• 1 can enchilada sauce
• 2 ounces cream cheese
• 1 bag Fritos corn chips
• 1 bag shredded cheese

For Toppings:

• 3/4 cup lettuce, shredded
• 1/2 cup fresh tomato, diced
• 16 ounces salsa
• 8 ounces sour cream

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat Mixture

1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion over medium heat until fully cooked.
2. Stir in the green chilies, enchilada sauce, and cream cheese. Cook until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is creamy.

2. Layer the Casserole

1. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, create layers in the following order:
   • A layer of Fritos corn chips
   • A layer of the meat mixture
   • A layer of shredded cheese
2. Repeat the layers if desired, ending with cheese on top.

3. Bake the Casserole

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake the casserole for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

4. Add Toppings and Serve

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly.
2. Serve individual portions and top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, salsa, and sour cream, as desired.

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Notes

• For extra crunch, sprinkle additional Fritos on top before serving.
• Add a spicy kick with diced jalapeños or hot salsa.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.