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walking taco casserole

Walking Taco Casserole

Emily
This walking taco casserole combines seasoned ground beef, crunchy Fritos, and melty cheese in one easy baking dish. Perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 6 servings
Calories 485 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Wooden spoon
  • Cutting Board
  • Chef’s Knife

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef 85/15 blend
  • 1 medium yellow onion finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 packet taco seasoning about 2 tablespoons
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies undrained
  • 4 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend divided
  • 1 bag (9.25 oz) Fritos corn chips or similar sturdy chips
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Add garlic for the last 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no pink remains, 6 to 8 minutes. Drain excess grease if needed.
  • Stir in taco seasoning, black beans, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
  • Remove from heat and fold in cream cheese and 1 cup shredded cheese until cream cheese is melted and mixture is cohesive.
  • Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Top with remaining 1 cup cheese.
  • Bake for 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly. Add Fritos and bake 5 more minutes, or add chips right before serving for maximum crunch.
  • Let cool 5 minutes, then serve with desired toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, and cilantro.

Notes

  • For extra crunch, add half the chips before baking and half right before serving
  • Cream cheese should be room temperature for smooth blending
  • Can be assembled ahead and refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking
  • Freezes well without chips for up to 3 months
Keyword walking taco casserole