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Walking Taco Casserole Recipe

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4 from 9 reviews

This Walking Taco Casserole combines all the beloved taco flavors into one hearty, comforting dish. Ground beef is sautéed with onions, garlic, and seasoning, then simmered with beans, diced tomatoes, and salsa. Topped with crunchy Fritos and melted cheddar cheese, it’s baked until bubbly. Perfect for an easy weeknight meal or casual gathering, this casserole is flavorful, cheesy, and packed with Tex-Mex goodness.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons neutral oil, such as Canola oil
  • 1 white onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 pound 80/20 ground beef
  • 3 tablespoons taco seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 scallion, finely diced
  • 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans
  • 1 (10-ounce) can RO*TEL Original Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies
  • 1 cup thick and chunky salsa
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, plus more if needed
  • 1 (9-ounce) bag Fritos Corn Chips

Optional Toppings

  • Sour cream
  • Pickled jalapenos
  • Diced scallions
  • Shredded lettuce

Instructions

  1. Saute the aromatics: Set a large 12-inch skillet over medium heat and add the oil. Saute the garlic and onion for 6-8 minutes until soft and translucent, developing their sweet and savory flavors.
  2. Cook the meat: Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it into bite-sized pieces using a wooden spoon. Saute for 6-8 minutes until the meat is nicely browned. If your taco seasoning lacks salt, add a pinch of salt now to season the meat evenly.
  3. Preheat the oven: While the meat cooks, set your oven to preheat at 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole later.
  4. Simmer the casserole: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the taco seasoning, diced scallions, and pinto beans into the meat mixture. Saute for 1-2 minutes until everything is well combined. Then add the RO*TEL diced tomatoes with green chilies and chunky salsa. Let the mixture simmer gently for 8-10 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully. Taste and season with additional salt and black pepper as needed.
  5. Add the toppings: Transfer the simmered mixture immediately into a 9x13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top, then scatter 2 cups of Fritos corn chips evenly. Add more chips if desired for extra crunch.
  6. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly and inviting.
  7. Serve: After baking, top the casserole with optional dollops of sour cream, pickled jalapenos, diced scallions, and shredded lettuce. Divide the casserole onto serving plates and enjoy this comforting, flavorful meal!

Notes

  • Use 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and moisture.
  • If you prefer a spicier casserole, add more jalapenos or extra hot salsa.
  • Fritos chips add a perfect crunch; substitute with your favorite corn chips if preferred.
  • For a milder version, omit jalapenos and use mild salsa.
  • Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Find it online: https://cookedbygrace.com/walking-taco-casserole-recipe/