Dinner

Walking Taco Casserole Recipe

ByLily Monroe December 1, 2025December 1, 2025

Introduction

Elevate your Taco Tuesday with this easy walking taco casserole, featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, and melted cheese, all topped with crunchy Fritos corn chips. This versatile, one-pan dish comes together quickly and offers plenty of room for your favorite toppings.

This image shows a layered dish in a white round pan with a wooden spoon scooping a portion. At the bottom is a layer of seasoned ground beef mixed with black beans and sauce, appearing rich and brownish-red. Above that, a melted layer of yellow and white cheese covers the meat. The third layer is crunchy, bright orange corn chips scattered over the cheese. On top, fresh green shredded lettuce adds a crisp contrast. Red cherry tomato halves and small cilantro leaves are spread across the dish, adding pops of red and green color. The pan rests on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (90/10 or preferred)
1 packet gluten-free taco seasoning
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 cup salsa (mild, medium, hot, or salsa verde)
½ cup sour cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or preferred cheese blend)
1 bag Fritos corn chips (regular or scoops)
Optional toppings: cherry tomatoes, shredded lettuce, cilantro, diced avocado, pickled onions, green onions, roasted jalapeños, sour cream, guacamole, lime wedges

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 2: Stir in the taco seasoning, salsa, sour cream, black beans, and corn. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes until well combined and heated through.
Step 3: Transfer the beef mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
Step 4: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Just before serving, crush the Fritos corn chips and sprinkle them generously over the top to add a crunchy layer.
Step 6: Add your favorite toppings such as cherry tomatoes, shredded lettuce, cilantro, diced avocado, or sour cream.

Tips & Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles, extra black beans, or sautéed mushrooms.
Adjust spice levels by choosing hotter salsa or adding roasted jalapeños.
Use your preferred cheese like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or Colby Jack for different flavors.
If Fritos are unavailable, tortilla chips make a great substitute for the crunchy topping.
Make your own gluten-free taco seasoning using pantry spices to control salt and heat.

Storage

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. To keep the Fritos crunchy, add them fresh just before serving instead of storing them on top.

How to Serve

The dish is layered in a white bowl with a base of cooked seasoned ground beef mixed with black beans, topped with melted yellow and white cheese. Above this, there is a layer of crispy, yellow corn chips that are scattered unevenly, adding crunch. Fresh, shredded green lettuce is spread on top along with halved red cherry tomatoes, and small green cilantro leaves are sprinkled throughout. A wooden spoon holding a scoop of the layers lifts some of the ingredients, showing the mix of textures and colors. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture in advance and refrigerate it. Assemble the casserole with cheese and bake just before serving for best results.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free when using gluten-free taco seasoning and Fritos corn chips, which are labeled gluten-free. Always verify your ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.