Save Pin
Walking Taco Casserole has become my go-to solution for busy weeknights when I want something hearty and fun that absolutely everyone will eat. Packed with zesty taco flavor, loads of crispy Fritos, and plenty of cheese, this casserole takes the idea of a walking taco and makes it family-sized comfort food that never fails to please. Whether it is game day or a regular Tuesday, this dish brings out big smiles and second helpings every time.
The first time I made this, I caught my kids scraping the crispy edges right out of the pan. Now it is the most requested casserole when we have family gatherings.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: adds hearty flavor and makes this casserole satisfying use 80 20 for best taste
- Taco seasoning: delivers all the spices you need in one packet look for low sodium if you watch salt
- Yellow onion: builds the flavor base pick firm and glossy onions for best results
- Red enchilada sauce: brings tang and spice use a brand you love for great underlying flavor
- Rotel tomatoes with green chilies: give a punch of heat and brightness
- Pinto beans: add extra protein and a creamy bite rinse well before use
- Mexicorn: provides pops of color and sweetness look for crisp kernels
- Mexican blend cheese: melts beautifully and gives gooeyness use freshly grated for top results
- Original Fritos: give signature crunch and salty bite do not substitute other chips if you want the classic
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep and Sauté:
- Dice the yellow onion and gather your ingredients. In a large skillet over medium-high heat cook ground beef with onion for about eight to ten minutes until the meat is fully browned and onion is translucent. Drain off excess fat.
- Season the Meat:
- Sprinkle taco seasoning across the cooked meat and onions. Stir everything so the seasoning coats the mixture evenly and you smell all the warm spices blooming.
- Add Pantry Mix-Ins:
- Pour in the Rotel tomatoes with green chilies pinto beans Mexicorn and red enchilada sauce directly into the skillet. Measure in one cup of Mexican blend cheese as well. Stir until every bite of the filling is coated and well combined.
- Layer the Casserole:
- In a large 9 by 13 dish scatter enough Fritos to cover the bottom. Spoon half of the meat mixture over the chips and spread evenly. Scatter more Fritos over the meat and then layer the remaining meat mixture on top.
- Top and Bake:
- Sprinkle the last cup of cheese evenly across the top layer. Place the dish in a 350 degree oven and bake for fifteen to twenty minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is piping hot throughout.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Let it sit for five minutes out of the oven so it slices clean then serve while the Fritos are still crisp and the cheese pulls are irresistible.
Save Pin
My personal favorite part is seeing how much my family loves adding their own toppings like fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime. Every birthday or sleepover this dish becomes the star of the table and there are never any leftovers to store.
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in a tightly sealed container in the fridge. Fritos will soften but the flavors will deepen overnight. For best texture reheat portions in the oven or a toaster oven so the chips get some crunch back. If freezing omit the Fritos layer until after reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of pinto beans swap in black beans or kidney beans for a twist. Vegetarian crumbles or cooked shredded chicken both work great in place of ground beef. You can use homemade enchilada sauce if you want to control spice and salt levels or adjust it to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Save Pin
Serve hot straight from the pan. I love setting out a toppings bar with shredded lettuce diced tomatoes avocado slices chopped jalapenos and sour cream so everyone can finish their plate their way. This casserole also makes a perfect main dish for potlucks or casual parties.
Cultural Context
Walking tacos are a popular fair and festival food in the Midwest where a bag of Fritos gets loaded with taco meat and toppings right inside the bag for an on-the-go meal. This casserole channels the same playful flavor and crunch but serves it up family style which is perfect for home gatherings and weeknight ease.
Commonly Asked Questions
- → What type of ground meat can I use?
Ground beef is classic, but ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative also work well in this dish.
- → Can I add extra toppings before serving?
Absolutely! Popular options include shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, sour cream, and extra cheese.
- → How do I avoid soggy Fritos?
Bake the casserole just before serving and layer the Fritos right before assembling to keep them crunchy.
- → Can different beans be used?
Yes, feel free to substitute pinto beans with black beans, kidney beans, or even add a layer of refried beans.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Store cooled casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.