Walking Taco Casserole

If you love the fun and flavor of walking tacos but want a cozy, family-friendly meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any night of the week, this Walking Taco Casserole is exactly what you need. It combines all the best parts of a walking taco – seasoned beef, zesty tomatoes, crunchy corn chips, and melty cheese – layered into a warm, comforting casserole. This dish is not only simple and quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying, making it a great choice for busy weeknights, potlucks, or casual get-togethers. Plus, it’s customizable to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Get ready to make a new favorite that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Walking Taco Casserole takes the beloved flavors of a walking taco and transforms them into a hearty, cheesy casserole that’s easy to serve and share. It’s packed with protein from the ground beef and pinto beans, has a perfect balance of spice from the taco seasoning and ROTEL tomatoes, and features a delightful crunch from the Frito corn chips. Unlike traditional walking tacos, this casserole is less messy and more filling, making it perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. The recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients you likely already have on hand, and it comes together in under an hour. Whether you’re making dinner for your family or bringing a dish to a party, this casserole delivers big on flavor and convenience.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing the aromatics and browning the beef
• 1 pound ground beef – choose lean ground beef for a healthier option
• Salt and pepper – to season the beef and balance flavors
• 1 yellow onion, finely diced – adds sweetness and depth to the savory base
• 1 (10-ounce) can ROTEL tomatoes (diced tomatoes with chiles) – brings a mild spicy kick and juicy texture
• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning – homemade or store-bought, this adds classic taco spices; click for recipe!
• 15 ounces pinto beans, drained – adds fiber, protein, and a creamy texture
• 3 cups Frito corn chips – for that signature crunch and corn flavor
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – melts beautifully for a gooey, savory topping

How To Make Walking Taco Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little olive oil or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced yellow onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the ground beef and season with salt and pepper. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spatula, until the beef is browned and cooked through, approximately 6-8 minutes.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Seasoning, and Beans

Drain any excess grease from the skillet. Stir in the can of ROTEL tomatoes (including the juice), taco seasoning, and drained pinto beans. Mix well and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the liquid to reduce slightly.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

In your prepared baking dish, spread half of the Frito corn chips evenly across the bottom. Spoon half of the beef mixture over the chips. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef layer. Repeat by adding the remaining chips, the rest of the beef mixture, and finish with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with fresh toppings like sour cream, chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, or sliced jalapeños if you want to add some extra flair.

Expert Tips

• For a leaner option, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
• Use homemade taco seasoning to control the salt and spice levels.
• Add a layer of refried beans under the beef mixture for extra creaminess.
• Don’t skip draining the beans and excess fat from the cooked beef to keep the casserole from getting soggy.
• For a gluten-free version, double-check that your taco seasoning and corn chips are certified gluten-free.
• Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to set, making it easier to serve.

Variations and Customizations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or crumbled tofu and increase the beans for protein.
• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
• Cheese Options: Swap cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.
• Extra Veggies: Stir in diced bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for added nutrients and texture.
• Mexican Rice Layer: Add a layer of cooked Mexican rice to make the casserole more filling and flavorful.
• Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions for a fresh contrast.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Walking Taco Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, individual portions can be microwaved for 1-2 minutes until warm. Avoid refrigerating the corn chips separately as they will lose their crispness. For best texture, consider adding fresh corn chips on top after reheating.

FAQ

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes and then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s still cold in the center.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

This casserole can be frozen, but the corn chips may lose their crunch. To freeze, assemble the casserole without the chips on top, cover tightly with foil and freezer-safe wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, add fresh corn chips on top, and bake until bubbly.

What can I use if I don’t have ROTEL tomatoes?

You can substitute ROTEL tomatoes with a 10-ounce can of diced tomatoes mixed with a small diced green chile or a pinch of cayenne pepper for similar heat and flavor.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use a dairy-free shredded cheese alternative or omit the cheese entirely. Consider topping with avocado slices or a dollop of dairy-free sour cream for creaminess.

Conclusion

This Walking Taco Casserole is a delicious, comforting, and easy dinner that brings all the flavors of your favorite walking taco into one satisfying dish. With simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and plenty of room for customization, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The combination of seasoned beef, spicy tomatoes, crunchy corn chips, and gooey cheese makes every bite a delightful experience. Try it tonight and watch it become a fast family favorite!