Walking Taco Casserole (Easy Cheesy Family Dinner)
Walking Taco Casserole is a fun, flavorful twist on classic walking tacos, baked into one easy, crowd-pleasing dish. Loaded with seasoned ground beef, crunchy chips, melted cheese, and fresh toppings, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, game day, and family gatherings.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet taco seasoning
1 cup water
3 cups crushed tortilla chips or corn chips (Fritos or Doritos)
1½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
1 cup canned corn, drained
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
½ cup diced tomatoes or Rotel, drained
Optional Toppings:
Shredded lettuce
Diced tomatoes
Sour cream
Sliced jalapeños
Chopped green onions
Guacamole
Preparation
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease. Add garlic, taco seasoning, and water. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
Stir in corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes. Spread mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle crushed chips evenly over the top, then cover with shredded cheese.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until hot and bubbly. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before adding desired toppings.
Helpful Tips
Use Doritos for extra bold flavor.
Add cooked rice for a heartier casserole.
Make it spicy by adding hot Rotel or cayenne pepper.
For extra crunch, add chips after baking.
Common Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze walking taco casserole?
Yes, freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
Can I use ground chicken or turkey?
Absolutely, both work great as lighter alternatives.
What chips work best?
Fritos, tortilla chips, or Nacho Cheese Doritos all taste amazing.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in oven or microwave.