Description
This Walking Taco Casserole is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish combining seasoned ground beef, zesty enchilada sauce, and crunchy Fritos chips baked to bubbly perfection. Topped with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, salsa, and sour cream, it captures the fun of a walking taco in a comforting casserole form, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat Mixture
- 1 1⁄2 pounds Ground Beef
- 1⁄3 large Onion, chopped
- 1 can Green Chilies (small can, approx. 4 oz)
- 1 can Enchilada Sauce (approx. 10 oz)
- 2 ounces Cream Cheese
Base and Cheese
- 1 bag Fritos Corn Chips (approx. 9.25 oz)
- 1 bag Shredded Cheese (approx. 8 oz, cheddar or Mexican blend)
Toppings
- 3⁄4 cup Lettuce, shredded
- 1⁄2 cup Tomato, fresh, diced
- 16 ounces Salsa
- 8 ounces Sour Cream
Instructions
- Brown the beef and onion: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion together, stirring occasionally, until the meat is fully cooked and browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Combine with chilies, enchilada sauce, and cream cheese: Stir in the green chilies, enchilada sauce, and cream cheese into the beef mixture. Continue cooking while stirring until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Layer the casserole: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of Fritos corn chips evenly across the bottom. Pour the beef mixture over the chips, then sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, distributing it evenly.
- Bake until bubbly: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the assembled casserole in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Add fresh toppings and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve hot, topped with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, salsa, and sour cream as desired.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- If you like it spicy, add jalapeños or use a spicy enchilada sauce.
- For a vegetarian version, replace ground beef with seasoned beans and use vegetarian cheese.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve with a side of guacamole or tortilla chips for extra texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
