Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Walking Taco Bake is the ideal solution for busy weeknights when you need a meal that’s both quick and satisfying. It only takes 35 minutes to make and is a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. With its customizable toppings, you can tailor the dish to your family’s taste preferences. Whether you prefer spicy jalapeños or creamy guacamole, you can make this casserole your own. Plus, you can even swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Ingredients
- Ground beef (80-90% lean)
- Yellow onion
- Chili seasoning mix
- Beef broth (or water)
- Kidney beans (or substitute with black or pinto beans)
- Fritos (or Doritos for a fun twist)
- Shredded cheese (Mexican blend, cheddar, or Monterey Jack)
- Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, jalapeños, green onions, cilantro, guacamole
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Cook the meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the onion until the beef is cooked through and the onions are tender. Drain any excess grease.
- Season the beef: Turn off the heat and stir in the chili seasoning mix, beef broth (or water), drained kidney beans, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Assemble and bake: Spread the beef mixture evenly into a casserole dish. Top with Fritos and the remaining cheese. Bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Top and serve: Once baked, add your choice of toppings such as shredded lettuce, tomatoes, jalapeños, and sour cream. Serve warm and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 5 servings
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or drizzle your favorite hot sauce over the casserole to increase the heat.
- Dorito Version: Swap the Fritos for Doritos for a zesty twist.
- More Vegetables: Mix in corn, green chilies, or diced bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Storage/Reheating
To store leftovers, remove the Fritos before placing the casserole in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. When reheating, microwave the chili mixture, then add fresh Fritos and toppings before serving.
FAQs
1. Is Frito Pie and Walking Taco the same thing?
Yes, both Frito pie and walking tacos involve the same ingredients, but they might be served differently. Walking tacos are typically served in a bag of chips, while Frito pie is baked in a casserole dish.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. When you’re ready, simply assemble the casserole and bake it.
3. What can I use instead of Fritos?
You can substitute Fritos with any type of tortilla chips, or even Doritos for a different flavor.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Remove Fritos from the casserole before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat the chili mixture, then add fresh Fritos when serving.
5. Can I make this recipe with ground turkey or chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives for a lighter version of this dish.
6. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add jalapeños or drizzle hot sauce over the casserole for an extra spicy kick.
7. Can I use canned beans in this recipe?
Yes, canned beans work perfectly. Just be sure to drain and rinse them before adding them to the beef mixture.
8. What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a side of guacamole, black bean and corn salad, or a simple side salad with lime vinaigrette.
9. Can I freeze this casserole?
While the casserole itself can be frozen, it’s best to store the Fritos separately. Freeze the casserole without the chips, then bake and add Fritos when ready to serve.
10. How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute or simply use more beans and vegetables for a vegetarian version.
Conclusion
This Walking Taco Bake is a flavorful and versatile meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s quick to make, easily customizable, and sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or as a fun dish for a gathering, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and time again. Enjoy!
Walking Taco Bake Recipe
This easy and comforting Walking Taco Bake recipe is a family-friendly dish that brings together all the flavors of a walking taco in a hearty casserole. Featuring savory beef, beans, Fritos, and melted cheese, this quick dinner is perfect for busy weeknights. Customize with your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, and jalapeños for a satisfying meal everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
- Category: Main Dish, Casserole
- Method: Stovetop, Baking
- Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80-90% lean)
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 packet chili seasoning mix
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- 1 can kidney beans (or black/pinto beans)
- 2 cups Fritos (or Doritos for a fun twist)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (Mexican blend, cheddar, or Monterey Jack)
- Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, jalapeños, green onions, cilantro, guacamole
Instructions
- Cook the meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion until the beef is fully cooked and the onions are tender. Drain any excess grease.
- Season the beef: Stir in the chili seasoning mix, beef broth (or water), drained kidney beans, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Mix everything well.
- Assemble and bake: Transfer the beef mixture to a casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Top with Fritos and the remaining cheese. Bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Top and serve: Add your choice of toppings such as shredded lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, and jalapeños. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- You can customize the toppings based on your preferences.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Use Doritos or tortilla chips instead of Fritos for a fun twist.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container (without Fritos) for up to 3-4 days.
