Walking Taco Casserole: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Favorite

Introduction

Walking Taco Casserole is a fun and easy meal that combines the best elements of a taco and a casserole. With layers of seasoned ground beef, cheesy goodness, and crunchy Fritos, this dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy family dinner. Ready in just about 35 minutes, it’s a tasty, satisfying option that brings all the flavors of a taco right to your table.

Ingredients

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

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook Beef Mixture: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is softened.
3. Add Ingredients: Stir in the green chilies, enchilada sauce, and cream cheese. Continue to cook, stirring until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture is well combined.
4. Assemble Casserole: In a 9×13 inch baking pan, layer half of the Fritos chips, followed by the meat mixture, and then top with shredded cheese.
5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Top individual portions with the remaining Fritos chips, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, salsa, and a dollop of sour cream as desired.

Servings and Timing

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

Variations

• Protein Options: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a meat alternative for a different twist.
• Cheese Varieties: Use different types of cheese such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend.
• Toppings: Add jalapeños, sliced olives, or avocado for extra flavor and texture.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in some hot sauce or diced jalapeños into the beef mixture if you like it spicy.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For the oven, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of chip instead of Fritos?
   • Yes, you can use other types of corn chips or tortilla chips as a substitute.
2. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
3. What kind of ground beef should I use?
   • Use lean ground beef for a less greasy casserole. You can also use ground turkey or chicken.
4. Can I freeze this casserole?
   • Yes, freeze the casserole before baking. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-60 minutes.
5. What can I use instead of cream cheese?
   • You can use sour cream or Greek yogurt as an alternative to cream cheese.
6. Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
   • Yes, substitute the ground beef with a vegetarian meat substitute or additional beans and vegetables.
7. Can I use homemade enchilada sauce?
   • Absolutely, homemade enchilada sauce can be used in place of store-bought.
8. What can I serve with this casserole?
   • Serve with a side salad, Mexican rice, or refried beans for a complete meal.
9. Can I add vegetables to the beef mixture?
   • Yes, you can add bell peppers, corn, or black beans to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
10. How can I make this dish less spicy?
    • Use mild enchilada sauce and skip the green chilies to reduce the heat.

Conclusion

Walking Taco Casserole is a versatile and delicious dish that brings together the best aspects of tacos and casseroles. With its layers of seasoned beef, melted cheese, and crispy Fritos, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to make and satisfying to eat. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the hearty flavors and the fun twist on a classic favorite!

Print