Prepare Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs. Ground beef
- 1 C. Onion, chopped
- 3 oz. Cream cheese
- 1 Packet Taco seasoning
- 1 Can Green chilis
- 2-3 C. Fritos corn chips
- 1 C. Shredded taco blend cheese
- 1 Roma tomato, chopped
- 1-2 C. Lettuce, shredded
- Salsa and sour cream for garnish
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until the beef is thoroughly browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess grease.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream cheese, taco seasoning, and green chilis until well combined and the cream cheese is melted.
- Place a layer of Fritos corn chips at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread the beef mixture over the chips.
- Sprinkle the shredded taco blend cheese over the top. Add another layer of Fritos on top if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish the baked casserole with chopped tomato, shredded lettuce, salsa, and sour cream before serving.
Cook Notes
For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for the beef and use low-fat cream cheese.
Variations
Keto Version
Swap the Fritos for a keto-friendly alternative like crushed pork rinds. Use full-fat cream cheese and ensure the taco seasoning is sugar-free.
Low-Carb Version
Replace the corn chips with a low-carb vegetable layer, such as roasted zucchini or cauliflower florets, for a similar texture without the carbs.
Nutrition Fact
Per serving (approximate values, varies based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes):
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 25g
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary significantly based on ingredient choices and modifications.
The Walking Taco Casserole is a testament to the joy of mixing traditional recipes with a bit of creative flair. It’s a dish that promises not just to satisfy hunger but also to bring a sense of fun and festivity to your table. Enjoy the crunch, the melt, and the hearty flavors that make this casserole a delightful culinary adventure.
