Description
Walking Taco Casserole is a quick and delicious weeknight dinner that combines the flavors of a classic Frito chili pie into an easy-to-make casserole. Ground beef, savory chili seasoning, kidney beans, crunchy Fritos, and melted cheese come together to create a comforting dish that’s perfect for feeding a family or a crowd. Top it with fresh ingredients like lettuce, jalapeños, and sour cream for an irresistible meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (80-90% lean)
- 1 cup chopped yellow onion
- 1 packet chili seasoning mix
- ½ cup beef broth or water
- 1 can kidney beans, drained
- ½ bag Fritos corn chips
- 3 cups shredded cheese (Mexican blend or cheddar)
Optional Toppings
- Shredded lettuce
- Jalapeños
- Chopped tomatoes
- Sour cream
- Green onions
- Cilantro
- Guacamole
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook beef and onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped yellow onion until the beef is browned and the onions are tender. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add seasoning and beans: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chili seasoning mix, beef broth (or water), drained kidney beans, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Mix well to combine.
- Assemble casserole: Spread the beef mixture evenly into a 9×9 or 9×11 casserole dish. Sprinkle the Fritos corn chips evenly over the meat mixture, then top with the remaining 2 cups of shredded cheese.
- Bake the casserole: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
- Add toppings and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and add your favorite toppings such as shredded lettuce, jalapeños, chopped tomatoes, sour cream, green onions, cilantro, or guacamole before serving.
Notes
- Nutrition information provided does not include optional toppings.
- Use a 9×9 or 9×11 inch casserole dish for even cooking and proper layering.
- Adjust chili seasoning amount to your preferred spice level.
- For a crispier topping, add Fritos just before serving instead of baking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated for an easy next-day meal.