Walking Taco Casserole

Forget juggling taco shells and napkins, this walking taco casserole recipe takes all the best parts of a walking taco and transforms them into a shareable main dish for a hungry crowd. Crunchy chips, seasoned beef, melty cheese and all the toppings you could dream of come together in a masterpiece that’s part taco night, part potluck hero. It’s easy to make and impossible to resist—everyone will be fighting over the last scoop (pro tip: make extra). Whether you are hosting a game night, are making a casual dinner or just want to impress your family with something fun, interactive and flavorful, this ground beef casserole recipe is your ticket to taco bliss minus the mess.

What is a walking taco?

A walking taco is a portable twist on traditional tacos! Instead of a corn taco shell, a walking taco starts with a small bag of corn chips, like Fritos (parent company Frito-Lay trademarked “Walking Taco” in 2022). The bag is filled with taco toppings—seasoned meat, cheese, lettuce, salsa and more—making it easy to eat on the go.

There’s some dispute over the origins of a walking taco: Some say Midwesterners created it; its cousin, another casserole version made with corn chips but with ranch-style beans and enchilada sauce called Frito pie, most likely came out of New Mexico. No matter how you serve it (or eat it), this recipe for walking taco casserole captures the essence of the fun mini-meal but ditches the bag, turning it into a shareable baked dish.

Walking Taco Casserole Ingredients

• Canola oil: This neutral cooking oil is terrific for browning and sauteing without overpowering other flavors. Its high smoke point ensures even cooking.
• Ground beef: Browning ground beef creates the flavorful base of this casserole. I like using 80/20 ground beef, but you can use a leaner blend or type of meat.
• Onion: Chopped onion adds a sweet, aromatic flavor that complements the beef. The best way to chop an onion is to keep the stem intact until your last cut. A fine, even dice will cook evenly, giving the dish fabulous flavor distribution throughout.
• Taco seasoning: The classic blend brings bold taco flavor with spices like chili powder, cumin, garlic powder and paprika. Use the best store-bought taco seasoning brands or make taco seasoning from scratch.
• Diced tomatoes and green chiles: Don’t drain the can! The liquid in canned tomatoes adds a zesty kick and juicy texture. The green chiles bring a mild heat that perfectly balances the savory beef.
• Pinto beans: Beans fill out our walking taco bake and add protein, fiber and a creamy texture. Rinsing removes extra sodium, keeping the dish balanced.
• Whole kernel corn: That singular little snap as you bite into a kernel of corn makes it essential in this recipe. Corn also contributes a pop of sweetness and a satisfying bite that balances the spicier flavors.
• Corn chips: Crunchy corn chips are at the heart of this casserole’s magic, adding texture and a salty bite. Classic Fritos work great here. Tortilla chips can also work in this walking taco bake.
• Mexican cheese blend: This blend of cheeses (often cheddar, Monterey Jack and others) melts beautifully, creating a gooey, cheesy topping that ties the dish together.
• Toppings: Choose your favorite taco toppings to serve on the side. Your family and friends can customize their servings with ingredients like sliced green onion, sliced black olives, salsa, sour cream, chopped avocado, guacamole and pickled jalapenos. The options are endless!

Directions

Step 1: Prep the protein and veggies

Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and onion, and cook until the meat gets browned and the onions are soft, six to seven minutes. Stir in the taco seasoning mix and the diced tomatoes with green chiles. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, two to three minutes, stirring constantly. Then, stir in the beans and corn.

Step 2: Layer in a baking dish

Layer the corn chips in a greased 13×9-inch baking dish. Spoon the taco meat mixture evenly on top. Sprinkle with shredded cheese.

Step 3: Bake the casserole

Bake the casserole until the cheese is bubbly, 15 to 20 minutes. Serve with toppings, as desired.

Mark Derse for Taste of Home

Walking Taco Casserole Variations

• Use different chips: Fritos are great, but Doritos of any flavor, tortilla chips or other types of corn chips are welcome swaps.
• Switch up the protein: For a different spin, use ground turkey, chicken, chorizo or a plant-based meat.
• Try different beans: Instead of pinto beans, use black or refried beans for a creamier texture.
• Change the cheese: Try pepper jack for extra heat or sharp cheddar for a tangy flavor.
• Make it vegetarian: Skip the meat and double the beans and veggies for a tasty meatless version.

How to Store Walking Taco Casserole

Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Can you freeze walking taco casserole?

You can freeze the ground beef mixture for up to three months, no problem! When you are ready to make the casserole, let the meat mixture defrost overnight in the refrigerator, layer your chips and cheese, and bake.

Can you make a recipe for walking taco casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the beef mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to two days. Assemble the casserole just before baking to ensure the chips stay crunchy.

How do you reheat walking taco casserole?

Reheat the casserole in a 350° oven, covered with foil, for 15 to 20 minutes or until thoroughly heated. Add your toppings after reheating. You can microwave individual servings, but be forewarned: The chips will not be crunchy.

Walking Taco Casserole Tips

Mark Derse for Taste of Home

How do you keep a walking taco casserole from getting soggy?

Fresh chips are best, so open a new bag for this recipe and layer them just before baking to maintain their crunch. You can also serve the chips on the side for a build-your-own option.

What can you serve with walking taco casserole?

Turn your walking taco casserole dinner into a full-blown fiesta by setting up a taco bar that doubles as a toppings playground. Let your guests channel their inner taco artist with a spread of queso, salsa, guacamole and pico de gallo. Add a station piled high with chopped olives, green onions, pickled jalapenos and whatever random goodies are lurking in your fridge.

For extra flair, set up a “salad remix” corner where folks can top leafy greens with all the toppings meant for the casserole. Don’t forget to stock up on extra chips—trust me, they’ll disappear faster than you can say “Frito!” Pair it all with rice and beans and, of course, the ultimate finish—a giant pitcher of frozen margaritas.