Ingredients:

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp taco seasoning
  • 1 cup chunky salsa
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 can (425g) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 4 cups Fritos or Doritos, crushed slightly
  • 2 scallions, sliced
  • fresh cilantro

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Stir in the taco seasoning, water, salsa, and pinto beans. Simmer for 8–10 minutes until the liquid reduces and the meat is coated in a thick sauce.
  3. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and garlic powder until smooth.
  5. Spread a thin layer of crushed chips at the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Pour the seasoned beef mixture over the chips.
  6. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the beef, then sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar on top.
  7. Top the cheese with the remaining crushed chips and the final 1 cup of shredded cheddar.
  8. Bake for 15–20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling. Optionally, broil for the last 2 minutes for extra toasted chips.
  9. Remove from oven and garnish with sliced scallions and fresh cilantro.