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Walking Taco Casserole (Frito Pie) Recipe

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4.3 from 7 reviews

This Walking Taco Casserole (Frito Pie) is a delicious, easy-to-make comfort food combining seasoned ground beef, black beans, salsa verde, and tangy diced tomatoes baked with a crispy layer of Fritos and melted cheese. Topped with fresh veggies and creamy extras, it offers all the fun of a walking taco in a convenient casserole form.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef (80-85% lean)
  • 1/2 cup red onion, minced
  • 1 (15 oz.) can black beans, drained
  • 1/2 cup salsa verde
  • 1 (10 oz.) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel or store brand)
  • 4 Tablespoons homemade taco seasoning (or one packet store-bought)
  • 1/2 (9.25 oz.) bag Fritos original corn chips (or crushed Doritos/tortilla chips)
  • 2 cups freshly shredded cheese (blend of extra sharp Cheddar & Monterey Jack)

Optional Seasoning

  • 1 teaspoon Homemade Southwest Seasoning (for added spiciness)

Toppings (optional)

  • Shredded lettuce
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Sliced green onions
  • Black olives
  • Diced avocado
  • Thinly sliced jalapeno
  • Sour cream
  • Guacamole
  • Chopped cilantro
  • Pico de gallo
  • Lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Preheat: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
  2. Brown the beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the minced red onion until the meat is fully cooked and the onions are softened. Drain excess fat from the skillet.
  3. Add beans: Return the drained ground beef to the skillet and stir in the drained black beans, mixing well to combine.
  4. Mix in sauces: Add the diced tomatoes with green chilies and salsa verde to the beef and beans mixture, stirring to integrate all flavors.
  5. Season: Stir in the taco seasoning and, if desired, the homemade Southwest seasoning for extra spice. Use a favorite store-bought packet if preferred.
  6. Heat through: Continue cooking over medium heat until the mixture is heated thoroughly, allowing flavors to meld.
  7. Transfer to pan: Pour the savory beef mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
  8. Add cheese: Sprinkle the freshly shredded cheese evenly on top of the beef mixture.
  9. Top with Fritos: Evenly spread the Fritos corn chips over the layer of cheese to create a crunchy topping.
  10. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
  11. Remove and top: Take the casserole out of the oven and add your favorite toppings from the suggested list, such as lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, or guacamole.
  12. Serve: Serve warm, optionally with lime wedges for a fresh citrus squeeze. Enjoy your walking taco casserole!

Notes

  • You can substitute Fritos with crushed Doritos or tortilla chips according to your preference.
  • Use homemade taco seasoning for healthier ingredients and better flavor; however, store-bought seasoning packets work well too.
  • The optional Southwest seasoning adds a nice spicy kick if you enjoy more heat.
  • Be careful not to overbake to avoid dry edges; cheese should be melted and bubbly.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with plant-based ground meat or extra beans.

Find it online: https://dishcooks.com/walking-taco-casserole-frito-pie-recipe/