If you love the flavors of a taco but are looking for a fun and hearty twist, the Walking Taco Casserole is the perfect dish for you! This casserole brings together all the classic taco ingredients—savory ground beef, zesty green chilies, and melty cheese—layered with crunchy Fritos chips for that iconic taco crunch. Topped with fresh lettuce, tomato, salsa, and sour cream, it’s a complete meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends and family.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/3 large onion, chopped
- 1 can (small) green chilies
- 1 can enchilada sauce
- 2 ounces cream cheese
- 1 bag Fritos corn chips
- 1 bag shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite variety)
- 3/4 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup fresh diced tomato
- 16 ounces salsa
- 8 ounces sour cream
Instructions:
- Brown the Ground Beef:
In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat along with the chopped onion, breaking the meat apart as it cooks. Once the beef is browned and the onions are tender, drain any excess fat. - Add the Flavor:
Stir in the green chilies, enchilada sauce, and cream cheese. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the cream cheese has melted and the mixture is smooth and combined. - Layer in the Casserole Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, start layering your casserole. First, spread a layer of Fritos chips on the bottom. Next, spoon over half of the meat mixture, and top with a generous layer of shredded cheese. - Repeat the Layers:
Add another layer of Fritos chips, followed by the remaining meat mixture, and top with the rest of the shredded cheese. - Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and melted. - Top and Serve:
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven. Serve individual portions topped with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, salsa, and sour cream, as desired.
Storage Information:
- Leftover Walking Taco Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
- For longer storage, the casserole can be frozen. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap before freezing. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F for about 25 minutes or until heated through.
Conclusion:
Walking Taco Casserole takes all the delicious flavors of tacos and turns them into a comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole. The layers of Fritos chips, savory beef mixture, and melty cheese create a hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Top with fresh toppings like lettuce, tomato, salsa, and sour cream, and you’ve got a flavorful meal that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a casual get-together, this casserole is sure to become a favorite! Enjoy!
