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Walking Taco Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Mashup for Busy Families

Walking Taco Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Mashup for Busy Families

Walking Taco Casserole is a fun, family-friendly twist on the classic walking taco you love. All the bold Tex-Mex flavors—seasoned beef, beans, cheese, and crunchy Fritos—are baked together into one cozy, shareable casserole. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or game day.

Ingredients

Scale

Casserole

  • 1 pound ground beef

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 1 packet taco seasoning

  • ½ cup water

  • 1 can black beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed

  • 1 can diced tomatoes with green chiles (10 oz)

  • ½ cup sour cream

  • 1 bag Fritos corn chips (9.25 oz)

  • 2 cups Mexican-style shredded cheese

Optional Toppings

  • Sliced green onions

  • Sour cream

  • Guacamole

  • Salsa

  • Jalapeños

Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven
    Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

  • Cook the Beef
    In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until almost browned. Add the chopped onion and continue cooking until the onion is soft and the meat is fully cooked.

  • Season
    Stir in taco seasoning and water. Bring to a gentle boil.

  • Add the Mix-Ins
    Reduce heat and stir in black beans, diced tomatoes with green chiles, and sour cream. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed through and slightly thickened.

  • Assemble the Casserole
    Spread a single layer of Fritos on the bottom of the baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the chips. Add the beef mixture evenly on top, then finish with the remaining cheese.

  • Bake
    Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly around the edges.

  • Serve
    Remove from oven and top with extra Fritos and your favorite toppings. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease. Ground turkey or chicken works great too.

  • Swap black beans for pinto or kidney beans if preferred.

  • Add extra veggies like corn or bell peppers for more texture and color.

  • Make ahead: assemble in the morning, refrigerate, and bake at dinner time (add 5–10 extra minutes to bake time).

  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.