Walking Taco Casserole

Introducing Walking Taco Casserole! This savory dish takes the beloved flavors of a classic taco and transforms them into a hearty casserole perfect for feeding a crowd. With layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy melted cheese, and crunchy Fritos corn chips, this recipe promises a satisfying bite in every scoop.

Topped with fresh tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and optional salsa and sour cream, it’s a customizable delight that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Walking Taco Casserole

Ingredients

1 ½ lb. Ground beef

1 cup Onion chopped

3 oz. Cream cheese

1 Packet taco seasoning

1 Can green chilis

2-3 Cup Fritos corn chips

1 Cup Shredded taco blend cheese

1 Roma tomato chopped

1-2 Cup Shredded lettuce

Salsa and sour cream for garnish

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 2:

In an oven-safe skillet, brown the ground beef and onion over medium-high heat.

Cook, occasionally stirring, until the meat turned browned and the onions are softened.

Step 3:

In a large skillet, combine the taco seasoning, green chilis, and cream cheese, and cook until the cream cheese is completely melted and blended.

Step 4:

Corn chips are placed on the mixture, followed by shredded cheese.

Preheat oven to 350°F and bake for about 20 minutes.

Step 5:

Remove the pan from the oven and top with tomato and shredded lettuce.

If desired, top with salsa and sour cream.

Notes:

Prepare Ahead: You can brown the ground beef and chop the onions ahead of time to save preparation time when cooking.

Customize Seasonings: Adjust the taco seasoning to suit your taste preferences. You can make it spicier by adding extra chili powder or milder by reducing the amount of seasoning.

Layering Technique: Layer the ingredients evenly to ensure each bite has a balanced flavor profile. Start with a layer of meat mixture, followed by corn chips and cheese, then repeat until all ingredients are used.

Variations: Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite ingredients such as black beans, corn, diced bell peppers, or olives for extra flavor and texture.

Cheese Options: Experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack or sharp cheddar for a unique flavor twist.

Oven Safety: When removing the skillet from the oven, remember to use oven mitts or a kitchen towel to protect your hands from the heat.

Garnish Creatively: Get creative with the garnishes! Try adding sliced jalapeños, diced avocado, or chopped cilantro for additional freshness and flavor.

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef, and how would it affect the overall flavor?

Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even a plant-based ground meat substitute if you prefer.

The choice of meat will alter the flavor slightly but should still work well with the other ingredients.

Is there a low-fat or healthier alternative to using cream cheese in this casserole?

To reduce the fat content, you can use a lower-fat version of cream cheese or substitute it with plain Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk yogurt.

The texture and flavor may vary slightly, but it will still add creaminess to the casserole.

Can I use homemade taco seasoning instead of a packet, and how would I adjust the amount?

Yes, you can use homemade taco seasoning by using your preferred recipe.

Typically, one packet of taco seasoning is equal to around 2-3 tablespoons of homemade seasoning.

Adjust the amount to your taste, but start with about 2 tablespoons and add more if needed.

Are there any suitable substitutions for Fritos corn chips if I want to make the casserole gluten-free?

If you want to make the casserole gluten-free, you can use gluten-free corn chips or tortilla chips instead of Fritos.

There are many gluten-free corn chip options available in stores that will work well in this recipe.

How long can I store the leftovers, and what is the best way to reheat them?

You can store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

To reheat, simply place the desired portion in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual servings for a quick reheat.

Add fresh toppings like tomato, lettuce, salsa, and sour cream after reheating to maintain their texture and freshness.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time and bake it later, or does it need to be baked immediately after assembly?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking.

When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and bake as instructed in the recipe.

Keep in mind that the baking time may be slightly longer if the casserole is cold from the refrigerator.

Are there any vegetarian or vegan alternatives to replace the ground beef in this recipe?

Yes, you can use plant-based ground meat substitutes, such as vegetarian crumbles or textured vegetable protein (TVP), to replace the ground beef.

For a vegan version, choose dairy-free alternatives for cream cheese and shredded cheese.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of the taco blend cheese listed?

Yes, you can use other types of cheese according to your preference. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend can work as alternatives to taco blend cheese.

What are some optional add-ons or variations to customize the flavors of the Walking Taco Casserole?

You can add additional ingredients like black beans, corn kernels, diced bell peppers, or sliced black olives to the casserole for extra flavor and texture.

You can also incorporate different spices or herbs, such as cumin or cilantro, to enhance the taste.

How can I make this recipe spicier or milder to suit different taste preferences?

To make the casserole spicier, you can add chopped jalapeños or use a spicier variety of taco seasoning.

Conversely, to make it milder, reduce the amount of taco seasoning or use a mild version.

Adjust the amount of salsa and sour cream as desired to control the overall heat level.