Description
Frito Taco Casserole
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning mix
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup salsa or taco sauce
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
3 cups Frito corn chips
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 avocado, diced
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1/4 cup sour cream (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add the taco seasoning mix and salsa, stirring well. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Assemble the Casserole:
Spread 2 cups of Fritos evenly at the bottom of a baking dish.
Layer the seasoned ground beef and black beans on top.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef mixture.
Bake the Casserole:
Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Add Toppings:
Remove from the oven and top with the remaining Fritos, diced tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro.
Optional: Add a dollop of sour cream or drizzle taco sauce before serving.
Tips:
Add jalapeños for extra heat!
Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
Serve with extra salsa or guacamole on the side.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6
This Frito Taco Casserole is cheesy, crunchy, and bursting with taco flavor – perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or party dish.
#TacoTuesday #EasyCasserole #ComfortFood
Step-by-Step Guide
For a foolproof casserole, follow these detailed steps. First, ensure your oven rack is in the center position before preheating to 350°F. While browning the beef, break it into very small crumbles for even distribution. After draining the fat, return the skillet to low heat before adding the seasoning and salsa; this prevents burning. When assembling, gently press the base layer of Fritos to create a solid foundation. For the cheese layer, reserve a small handful to sprinkle on top during the last 5 minutes of baking for an extra golden finish.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a complete meal but pairs wonderfully with lighter sides. Serve it with a crisp green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette or a simple side of Mexican street corn (elote). For a buffet-style meal, offer small bowls of additional toppings like pickled red onions, sliced black olives, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice. It also makes excellent next-day leftovers for packed lunches.
How-to Summary
Brown beef, mix with seasoning and salsa. Layer Fritos, beef/beans, and cheese in a dish. Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until bubbly. Top with fresh veggies and remaining Fritos.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, assemble it completely (except for the fresh toppings and final Fritos) up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate. Add 5-10 minutes to the bake time when cooking from cold.
How do I prevent the Fritos from getting soggy? The bottom layer will soften, which is part of the dish’s appeal. To keep the top crunchy, only add the remaining Fritos as a fresh garnish after baking.
What’s the best substitute for black beans? Pinto beans, kidney beans, or even canned corn (drained) work perfectly as a substitute or addition.
Can I use a different type of chip? While Fritos provide a distinct flavor and texture, similar corn chips can be used. Avoid thin, delicate tortilla chips as they will disintegrate.
How should I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish covered with foil in a 300°F oven until warmed through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not draining the beef fat thoroughly, which can make the casserole greasy.
- Using salsa with high water content, which can make the filling runny. Opt for thick, chunky salsa or taco sauce.
- Overbaking, which can cause the cheese to separate and become oily. Remove as soon as it’s melted and bubbly.
- Adding all Fritos before baking, resulting in uniformly soft chips instead of a contrasting crunchy top.
- Forgetting to rinse the canned black beans, which leaves a starchy, salty liquid.
Conclusion
This Frito Taco Casserole is the ultimate solution for a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal that requires minimal effort. It masterfully combines savory, cheesy, and crunchy elements with fresh, bright toppings. Its versatility with proteins, beans, and toppings means you can easily adapt it to your family’s preferences. Whether it’s a busy Tuesday or a casual gathering, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss, securing its place as a reliable favorite in your dinner rotation.