Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1 package taco seasoning
2/3 cup water
Chili cheese Fritos
1/2 can cheddar cheese soup
1/4 cup milk
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions:
Cook the Meat:
Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
Add the taco seasoning and water to the meat. Simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes, until the liquid is absorbed and the meat is well-coated with seasoning.
Prepare the Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Layer chili cheese Fritos on the bottom of an 8×8 baking dish. 5. Spread the seasoned meat evenly over the Fritos.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a saucepan, combine the cheddar cheese soup and milk. Heat over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. 7. Pour the cheese mixture over the meat layer in the baking dish.
Bake:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. 9. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. 11. Scoop the desired amount onto plates and enjoy!
This Walking Taco Bake is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Tips and Variations
Spicy Kick: Add a can of diced green chilies or jalapeños to the meat mixture for extra heat.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with seasoned black beans or meatless crumbles.
Toppings: Garnish with your favorite taco toppings such as diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, and sliced black olives.
Different Chips: Try using regular Fritos, Doritos, or even tortilla chips for a different flavor profile.
How to Store
Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Freeze: You can freeze the baked dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. Individual portions can be microwaved on high for 1-2 minutes.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use any cheese you prefer. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend would work great.
Q: What if I don’t have cheddar cheese soup? A: You can substitute with a homemade cheese sauce made from melted cheese and a bit of milk or cream, or use a different type of condensed soup like cream of mushroom or cream of chicken.
Q: Can this be made ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
Q: How can I make this dish healthier? A: Opt for baked chips instead of regular, use lean ground turkey instead of beef, and incorporate extra veggies like bell peppers or corn.
Enjoy making this easy and delicious Walking Taco Bake, perfect for a fun family meal or a casual get-together!
