Description

This Walking Taco Casserole is a fun and flavorful layered dish that combines all the favorite ingredients of classic walking tacos into a baked casserole. Ground beef is cooked with onions, green chilies, enchilada sauce, and cream cheese, then layered with crunchy Fritos, shredded cheese, lettuce, and fresh tomatoes. Topped with salsa and sour cream, this casserole makes for a comforting and crowd-pleasing meal perfect for weeknight 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, approximately 4 oz)
1 can enchilada sauce (about 10 oz)
2 ounces cream cheese

Casserole Assembly

1 bag Fritos corn chips (about 9-10 oz)
1 bag shredded cheese (about 8 oz, cheddar or Mexican blend)
3/4 cup shredded lettuce
1/2 cup fresh diced tomato

Toppings

16 ounces salsa
8 ounces sour cream

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole later.
Cook Beef Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion until the beef is fully cooked and the onions are soft and translucent, stirring occasionally to break up the meat.
Add Ingredients: Stir in the green chilies, enchilada sauce, and cream cheese into the cooked beef mixture. Continue cooking and stirring until the cream cheese has melted completely and the mixture is well combined and creamy.
Assemble Casserole: In a 9×13 inch baking pan, spread half of the Fritos corn chips evenly as the first layer. Spoon the prepared meat mixture over the chips, then sprinkle the shredded cheese on top to form the final layer before baking.
Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Add Fresh Toppings: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven. Top with shredded lettuce, fresh diced tomato, salsa, and dollops of sour cream according to your preference.
Serve: Serve the casserole warm, scooping portions that include a balance of crunchy chips, creamy meat mixture, and fresh toppings to enjoy the full walking taco experience.

Notes

You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
For extra spice, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the meat mixture.
If you prefer a crispier casserole, add the second half of Fritos chips on top before baking.
This casserole is best served immediately but can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.