Forget juggling taco shells and napkins, this walking taco casserole recipe takes all the best parts of a walking taco and transforms them into a shareable main dish for a hungry crowd. Crunchy chips, seasoned beef, melty cheese and all the toppings you could dream of come together in a masterpiece that’s part taco night, part potluck hero. It’s easy to make and impossible to resist—everyone will be fighting over the last scoop (pro tip: make extra). Whether you are hosting a game night, are making a casual dinner or just want to impress your family with something fun, interactive and flavorful, this ground beef casserole recipe is your ticket to taco bliss minus the mess.
What is a walking taco?
A walking taco is a portable twist on traditional tacos! Instead of a corn taco shell, a walking taco starts with a small bag of corn chips, like Fritos (parent company Frito-Lay trademarked “Walking Taco” in 2022). The bag is filled with taco toppings—seasoned meat, cheese, lettuce, salsa and more—making it easy to eat on the go.
There’s some dispute over the origins of a walking taco: Some say Midwesterners created it; its cousin, another casserole version made with corn chips but with ranch-style beans and enchilada sauce called Frito pie, most likely came out of New Mexico. No matter how you serve it (or eat it), this recipe for walking taco casserole captures the essence of the fun mini-meal but ditches the bag, turning it into a shareable baked dish.
Walking Taco Casserole Ingredients
- Canola oil: This neutral cooking oil is terrific for browning and sauteing without overpowering other flavors. Its high smoke point ensures even cooking.
- Ground beef: Browning ground beef creates the flavorful base of this casserole. I like using 80/20 ground beef, but you can use a leaner blend or type of meat.
- Onion: Chopped onion adds a sweet, aromatic flavor that complements the beef. The best way to chop an onion is to keep the stem intact until your last cut. A fine, even dice will cook evenly, giving the dish fabulous flavor distribution throughout.
- Taco seasoning: The classic blend brings bold taco flavor with spices like chili powder, cumin, garlic powder and paprika. Use the best store-bought taco seasoning brands or make taco seasoning from scratch.
- Diced tomatoes and green chiles: Don’t drain the can! The liquid in canned tomatoes adds a zesty kick and juicy texture. The green chiles bring a mild heat that perfectly balances the savory beef.
- Pinto beans: Beans fill out our walking taco bake and add protein, fiber and a creamy texture. Rinsing removes extra sodium, keeping the dish balanced.
- Whole kernel corn: That singular little snap as you bite into a kernel of corn makes it essential in this recipe. Corn also contributes a pop of sweetness and a satisfying bite that balances the spicier flavors.
- Corn chips: Crunchy corn chips are at the heart of this casserole’s magic, adding texture and a salty bite. Classic Fritos work great here. Tortilla chips can also work in this walking taco bake.
- Mexican cheese blend: This blend of cheeses (often cheddar, Monterey Jack and others) melts beautifully, creating a gooey, cheesy topping that ties the dish together.
- Toppings: Choose your favorite taco toppings to serve on the side. Your family and friends can customize their servings with ingredients like sliced green onion, sliced black olives, salsa, sour cream, chopped avocado, guacamole and pickled jalapenos. The options are endless!
Taste of Home
#Casserole, #EasyandQuick, #Homecooking, #Recipes,
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Just a Pennsylvania Dutch girl raised on simple good food that fills you up. Fussy recipes that leave you still hungry need not apply!
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