If you’ve ever grabbed a “walking taco” at a school carnival or football game, you already know the magic of crunchy corn chips mixed with seasoned taco meat and melty cheese. This casserole takes that same nostalgic, messy-delicious flavor and turns it into a cozy weeknight dinner that feeds the whole family with almost no effort. Everything gets layered into one dish, baked until bubbly, and topped with all your favorite taco fixings. It’s simple, satisfying, and exactly the kind of meal everyone rushes to the table for.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Start by cooking the meat.
Warm a large skillet over medium-high heat and brown the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Once it’s fully cooked, drain most of the grease, but keep a little in the pan for flavor.
Soften the onions.
Add the chopped onion to the same skillet and cook until soft and slightly golden. This brings a little sweetness to the dish.
Season everything.
Stir in the taco seasoning, salsa, and a splash of water. Let it simmer for a few minutes so the flavors blend into a thick, saucy mixture.
Build the casserole.
Spread the seasoned beef evenly into a baking dish, then scatter a generous layer of cheese over the top.
Add the crunch.
Lightly crush the Fritos with your hands and sprinkle them over the cheese. Don’t crush them too much, you want that big crunchy bite.
Bake until bubbly.
Slide the dish into a preheated oven and bake just long enough for the cheese to melt and everything to come together.
Serve with your favorite toppings.
Sour cream, shredded lettuce, jalapeños, tomatoes whatever your family loves on tacos works beautifully here.
Tips for the Best Walking Taco Casserole
- Go spicy or mild your choice. Use a hotter salsa or even a few dashes of hot sauce if you want a kick.
- Try different chips. Chili cheese Fritos, Doritos, or tortilla chips all add their own twist.
- Make it lighter. Ground turkey or chicken works perfectly.
- Make it ahead. Prepare the meat mixture earlier in the day and assemble right before baking.
- Add veggies. Corn, black beans, or diced bell peppers mix in beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Prep the meat mixture and store it in the fridge. Add the cheese and chips right before baking so they stay crispy.
2. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Warm leftovers in the oven or air fryer to bring back some of the crunch. The microwave works too, but the chips will soften.
3. Can I freeze this dish?
You can freeze the meat mixture but add the cheese and chips fresh when you bake it. Chips don’t freeze well.
4. Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely! swap the beef for seasoned cooked lentils, black beans, or a plant-based ground “meat.”
5. Can I use a different kind of cheese?
Yes! Cheddar, Pepper Jack, Monterey Jack, or a blend all work great.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9x13 inch casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray. Calories: Approximately 450
Protein: 35g
Carbs: 30g
Fat: 20g
Ingredients
Instructions
In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it apart as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
Remove cooked ground beef from the skillet and transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease, leaving approximately 1 tablespoon of drippings in the skillet. Set aside.
Add diced onion to the skillet with the reserved drippings. Cook over medium heat for 5-10 minutes, or until translucent and softened.
Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Add taco seasoning, salsa, and water. Stir to combine well.
Continue heating the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and the flavors have melded.
Spread the meat mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the meat mixture.
Lightly crush the Fritos and spread them evenly over the cheese layer.
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Serve hot, topped with your favorite taco toppings.Nutrition