Looking for a convenient and flavorful dish to enjoy on the go? Introducing the Walking Taco Casserole. This recipe offers all the savory goodness of traditional tacos without the mess, making it ideal for busy days or quick meals on the move.
Why You’ll Love This Walking Taco Casserole
– Portable Delight: Take your taco to the streets with this mobile casserole.
– Quick and Easy: Ready to serve in under 45 minutes, perfect for hectic schedules.
– Crowd-Pleaser: Generous servings for the whole family or gatherings.
– Crunchy Goodness: Fritos corn chips lend a delightful texture to the dish.
Ingredient Notes
– Ground Beef: Adds a rich meaty flavor to the casserole.
– Onion: Provides savory depth and aromatic notes.
– Cream Cheese: Creates a creamy and rich texture.
– Taco Seasoning: Infuses the dish with classic Mexican flavors.
– Green Chilis: Adds a subtle heat and tanginess.
– Fritos Corn Chips: Offers a satisfying crunch and taco shell-like experience.
– Taco Blend Cheese: Melts to a gooey, cheesy perfection.
– Roma Tomato: Freshness and vibrant color to the dish.
– Shredded Lettuce: Adds a crisp element to balance the flavors.
– Salsa and Sour Cream: Optional toppings for extra zing.
How to Make Walking Taco Casserole
– Step 1: Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 350 degrees.
– Step 2: Sauté Ground Beef and Onion: Brown the meat with onion until cooked through.
– Step 3: Add Seasonings: Mix in taco seasoning, green chilis, and cream cheese until melted.
– Step 4: Layer the Ingredients: Top with corn chips and shredded cheese.
– Step 5: Bake: Cook in the oven for 20 minutes.
– Step 6: Garnish and Serve: Top with lettuce, tomato, salsa, and sour cream as desired.
Storage Options
For optimal freshness, it’s best to add toppings like chips, lettuce, salsa, and sour cream right before serving to avoid sogginess and maintain the crunch of the chips.
Variations and Substitutions
– Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles.
– Spice it Up: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.
– Cheese Lover’s Twist: Experiment with different cheese blends or add more varieties.
– Healthier Version: Use baked tortilla chips for a lighter option.
What to Serve With Walking Taco Casserole
– Guacamole and Chips: Fresh avocado dip pairs perfectly with the casserole.
– Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn with Cotija cheese, mayo, and chili powder.
– Side Salad: Fresh greens with a light vinaigrette.
– Refreshing Beverage: Cold lemonade or a fruity sangria.
Frequently Asked Questions
– Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?: It’s best to assemble and bake just before serving for optimal taste and texture.
– Is This Dish Spicy?: The level of spiciness can be adjusted based on personal preference.
– Can I Use Different Meat?: Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter option.
– How Long Can I Store Leftovers?: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
After preparing this Walking Taco Casserole, you can expect a hearty and flavorful meal with a satisfying crunch from the Fritos chips, combined with the creaminess of the cheese and the bold flavors of the seasoned beef. It’s a versatile dish that caters to both quick family dinners and casual gatherings, offering a delicious twist on traditional tacos.
Walking Taco Casserole
Ingredients
Ground Beef
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion
Cheese Mix
- 1 package taco seasoning mix
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 4 oz green chilis, diced
Assembly
- 1 bag Fritos corn chips
- 2 cups taco blend cheese, shredded
Garnish
- roma tomato, diced
- shredded lettuce
- salsa
- sour cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium heat until beef is browned and onion is tender.
- Add taco seasoning, green chilis, and cream cheese to the beef mixture, stirring until well combined and cream cheese is melted.
- Spread half of the Fritos onto the bottom of a casserole dish. Top with the beef mixture, then the remaining Fritos and shredded cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, salsa, and sour cream before serving.