If you love walking tacos, you’re going to adore this Walking Taco Casserole! It’s a fun, easy, and utterly delicious Tex-Mex-inspired dish that transforms the flavors of a classic taco-in-a-bag into a comforting, cheesy casserole. Perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or potlucks, this dish delivers bold flavors with minimal effort.
Layers of savory seasoned beef, creamy refried beans, melty cheese, and crunchy tortilla chips come together in this irresistible recipe. Plus, it's easy to customize with your favorite toppings to make it just right for your family. Let’s dive into this crowd-pleasing casserole that’s guaranteed to become a favorite!
Ingredients & Their Roles
To make this flavor-packed Walking Taco Casserole, you'll need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef – Provides a hearty, savory base. Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted.
- 1/3 large onion, chopped – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies – Brings a mild heat and slight tanginess.
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce – Infuses the casserole with bold, zesty flavors.
- 2 ounces cream cheese, softened – Creates a creamy, luscious texture in the beef mixture.
- 1 (15.25 oz) can refried beans – Adds richness and helps bind the layers together.
For the Toppings & Layers:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Provides a gooey, melty topping. Pepper jack or Mexican blend cheese also work well.
- 1 cup sour cream – Adds a cool, tangy contrast to the rich, savory flavors.
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions – Enhances the dish with a fresh, slightly sharp bite.
- 1 (10 oz) package tortilla chips – Gives the casserole its signature crunch. Use your favorite brand or flavor for variety.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is fully browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess grease to avoid a greasy casserole.
2. Add Flavorful Ingredients
Stir in the diced green chilies, enchilada sauce, and softened cream cheese. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cream cheese is melted and fully incorporated.
3. Layer the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread half of the refried beans evenly in the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Layer half of the beef mixture on top.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the beef.
- Repeat the layers: remaining beans, beef mixture, and cheese.
4. Bake Until Perfectly Melted
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
5. Garnish & Serve
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Top with sour cream, chopped green onions, and additional shredded cheese if desired. Serve immediately with tortilla chips on the side.
Pro Tips for the Best Walking Taco Casserole
✔ Make It Spicier: Want more heat? Use a spicier enchilada sauce, add diced jalapeños, or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper.
✔ Crunch Factor: For extra crunch, add crushed tortilla chips to the top of the casserole just before serving instead of baking them in.
✔ Customize Your Toppings: This casserole is a blank canvas! Try adding diced tomatoes, black olives, avocado slices, salsa, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor.
✔ Vegetarian Option: Swap out the ground beef for crumbled tempeh, lentils, or seasoned black beans.
✔ Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven and enjoy a stress-free dinner!
Serving Suggestions
This Walking Taco Casserole is delicious on its own, but here are some ways to make it a full meal:
- Serve with Mexican Rice – A side of Spanish or cilantro-lime rice pairs beautifully.
- Add a Fresh Salad – A crisp Mexican-style slaw or a simple lettuce salad with avocado and tomatoes adds freshness.
- Offer Extra Chips & Salsa – Provide guacamole, salsa, or queso dip for extra dipping fun!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Minimal prep and just 25 minutes of baking time make this perfect for busy nights.
- Packed with Flavor: A delicious combination of cheesy, beefy, and crunchy textures in every bite.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this taco-inspired comfort food.
- Great for Crowds: Ideal for potlucks, parties, or casual get-togethers.
If you’re looking for a fun twist on taco night, this Walking Taco Casserole is the ultimate comfort food! It’s easy, satisfying, and guaranteed to become a go-to dinner favorite. Try it tonight, and let us know how you customize yours!