Walking Taco Casserole – Walking Taco Casserole is a tasty variation of the classic taco. It’s a way to savor all your taco ingredients, in one satisfying dish. This hearty casserole features ground beef, creamy cream cheese, and zesty green chilis all topped with a layer of crispy Fritos corn chips and a melted blend of taco cheeses. After a bake in the oven, it’s garnished with lettuce, and ripe tomatoes and served with salsa and sour cream. It’s definitely a hit that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
The first time I decided to make a Walking Taco Casserole for my family it sparked both curiosity and excitement among them. As I browned the ground beef and sautéed onions my husband wandered into the kitchen enticed by the aroma of goodness. Our little one stood on her tiptoes at the counter with eyes wondering what culinary masterpiece was about to be unveiled. When I added the cream cheese along, with the taco seasoning, they couldn’t resist sampling it with their fingers for a sneak peek taste. Their smiles confirmed that I was heading in the direction.
We arranged all the ingredients neatly in a skillet making sure to sprinkle a generous amount of Fritos and cover it with shredded cheese. As the casserole baked to a color our kitchen filled with the comforting aroma of a homemade meal. When it finally came out of the oven just the sight of it made us hungry. We couldn’t wait to start eating. The first bite was a delight. Before we knew it our plates were empty and our hearts were filled with contentment. That evening Walking Taco Casserole became a family favorite—a dish that brought us together with every delicious mouthful.
What makes this Walking Taco Casserole truly special?
Allow us to introduce you to Walking Taco Casserole—a twist, on a loved classic that combines the convenience of a casserole with the irresistible appeal of walking tacos. What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and its ability to please everyone in the family. It features a blend of ground beef, creamy cream cheese, zesty taco seasoning, and the satisfying crunch provided by Fritos—it’s truly an all-in-one wonder that brings smiles to every face around the dinner table. The secret ingredient lies in how different textures and flavors harmonize—from the cheesiness at its base to the crispy topping. It’s more than a meal; it’s an incredible experience—an enjoyable adventure from the initial taste to the final morsel. Whether you’re seeking a weeknight supper or a dish that will impress a gathering the Walking Taco Casserole is your gateway, to a fulfilling and entertaining dining experience.
What You Need To Make This Walking Taco Casserole Recipe?
Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef, for an alternative, or opt for ground turkey if you prefer. When browning the meat adding chopped onions enhances the dish with a burst of flavor.
Cream Cheese: Incorporating cream cheese into the casserole adds an indulgent element. Depending on your preferences you can use cream cheese or opt for reduced-fat cream cheese.
Taco Seasoning: While store-bought taco seasoning packets work well you can also create your taco seasoning blend using a combination of powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder and a touch of cayenne pepper for some spiciness.
Green Chilis: Canned green chilis contribute a tangy flavor. Adjust the quantity based on your preference for heat. Alternatively, fresh diced green chilis can be used to add a kick.
Fritos Corn Chips: Fritos offer that crunch and corn taste in this dish. If desired you can substitute them with corn chips or tortilla chips.
Shredded Taco Blend Cheese: This pre-shredded cheese blend typically consists of cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese and other varieties. Alternatively, you can shred your type of cheese. Or simply use plain cheddar.
Roma Tomato: Roma tomatoes are favored due to their texture and subtle flavor; any ripe tomato, at your disposal will do just fine.
Lettuce: Freshly shredded iceberg lettuce or any type of lettuce you like will provide a crunchy contrast, to the warm casserole.
Salsa and Sour Cream: To enhance the flavor and add a creamy touch consider garnishing the casserole with some salsa and sour cream. You can choose your level of spiciness, for the salsa to match your taste.
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Steps To Make Walking Taco Casserole:
Step 1: First and foremost make sure you have a skillet ready. We’re aiming for a mouthwatering dish. Add the ground beef. Chopped onions, into the skillet. Cook it until the beef is nicely browned and the onions become tender and cozy.
Step 2: Now let’s get to the magic part! Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, toss in those chilis and add chunks of creamy cream cheese. Stir it all together until the cream cheese melts and blends with everything creating an irresistible mixture.
Step 3: Here comes the enjoyable step! Layer on those Fritos corn chips like you’re building a base for your casserole. Don’t hold back! We want that satisfying crunch in every bite.
Step 4: Next generously shower your chip-covered creation with a blizzard of shredded taco blend cheese. Think about cheddar Monterey Jack and all that cheesy goodness coming together. It’s like an avalanche of cheese flavor that we absolutely love!
Step 5: Place it in the oven. Let the magic happen for 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese turns golden and bubbly while filling your kitchen with an aroma.
Step 6: Out of the oven emerges this bubbling delight filled with cheesy goodness. We’re not finished yet.
Step 7: Finish it off with shredded lettuce. Diced Roma tomatoes. It’s like a burst of freshness that cuts through all that delicious goodness.
Step 8: Don’t forget to spoon some salsa and sour cream onto each serving. It’s like the finale of flavors creating a symphony in your mouth.
Step 9: Now take that first bite. Let the flavors come alive on your taste buds. Your family is going to adore you for this one! It’s not a casserole; it’s a celebration!
Tip:
Looking to elevate this Walking Taco Casserole? Try substituting corn chips with flavored options such as chili cheese or jalapeño. This will give each crispy bite a kick and make your taste buds dance with joy!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You have the option to make the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve simply pop it in the oven.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
If you prefer alternatives, to ground beef you can try ground turkey or ground chicken. Alternatively, you can even explore options, like tofu crumbles.
Can I make it spicier?
Certainly! To add some heat consider using taco seasoning and spicy green chilis. For a kick, you can also drizzle some sauce before baking.
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Walking Taco Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds Ground beef
- 1 cup Onion chopped
- 3 ounces Cream cheese
- 1 Packet Taco seasoning
- 1 Can Green chilis
- 2-3 cups Fritos corn chips
- 1 cup Shredded taco blend cheese
- 1 Roma tomato chopped
- 1-2 cups Lettuce shredded
- Salsa and sour cream for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a skillet that can be used in the oven cook the ground beef and onions, over medium-high heat until the meat is browned and the onions are soft.
- Next add the taco seasoning, green chilis and cream cheese to the skillet. Continue cooking until the cream cheese is completely melted and mixed in.
- Spread a layer of corn chips on top of the mixture followed by cheese.
- Place the skillet in the oven. Bake for 20 minutes.
- Once done take out the skillet from the oven. Sprinkle lettuce and tomato on top.
- If you wish you can add salsa and sour cream as garnish.
- Tip: Personalize your Walking Taco Casserole with your preferred taco toppings like sliced olives, pickled jalapeños or diced avocado.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
