Description
Enjoy a hearty and flavorful Walking Taco Casserole that brings together seasoned ground beef, crunchy corn chips, melted cheddar, and classic taco toppings all baked into a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Meat and Seasoning
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (or onion powder or both)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 oz taco seasoning (1 packet)
Other Ingredients
- 3/4 cup salsa
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 4 cups corn chips (Fritos or store brand)
- 8 oz sour cream
- 8 oz shredded lettuce
- 8 oz guacamole
- Hot sauce (to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF to prepare for baking the casserole later.
- Sauté Onions: In a large oven-safe skillet, add the chopped onions. Cook over medium heat with a splash of oil if needed until onions are transparent and soft.
- Cook Taco Meat: Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it into smaller pieces. Season with garlic powder and salt. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Then add water and taco seasoning, stir well, and bring to a low boil for 8-10 minutes until most liquid has evaporated.
- Add Salsa and Cheese: Turn off the heat. Stir in salsa and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well to combine. If the skillet is oven-proof, spread the mixture evenly; if not, transfer it to a large casserole dish.
- Add Corn Chips and Cheese: Top the meat mixture with a single layer of Fritos corn chips. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the chips.
- Bake: Place the skillet or casserole dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese atop the chips has melted and become crispy.
Notes
- Make sure your skillet is oven-safe if baking directly in it; otherwise, use a casserole dish.
- Add hot sauce on top after baking to adjust spiciness to your liking.
- Serve with sour cream, shredded lettuce, and guacamole on the side or layered on top for authentic walking taco flavor.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
