Walking Tacos

Walking Tacos are a fun, portable twist on traditional tacos. Instead of using a taco shell, all the delicious ingredients are piled into a bag of chips, making it a perfect meal for parties, camping, or casual gatherings. This mess-free meal is easy to customize and comes together quickly with minimal cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Portable and convenient – Great for on-the-go meals or outdoor events.
  • Minimal cleanup – No need for plates or utensils.
  • Customizable – Add your favorite toppings for a personalized taco experience.
  • Kid-friendly – Fun and easy for kids to eat.
  • Quick to prepare – Ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Ground beef (or turkey)
  • Taco seasoning
  • Small bags of chips (Doritos, Fritos, or tortilla chips)
  • Shredded cheese
  • Shredded lettuce
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Sour cream
  • Salsa
  • Jalapeños (optional)
  • Avocado or guacamole (optional)
  • Chopped cilantro (optional)

Directions

  1. Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease.
  2. Add taco seasoning and water as directed on the seasoning packet. Stir and let simmer for a few minutes.
  3. Carefully open the chip bags and lightly crush the chips inside.
  4. Spoon the seasoned meat into each bag.
  5. Add shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, salsa, and any other toppings you like.
  6. Mix everything together in the bag and enjoy straight from the bag with a fork!

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 6
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

  • Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or black beans instead of beef.
  • Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy salsa.
  • Healthy Version: Use baked chips and lean meat, or opt for a vegetarian version with beans and veggies.
  • Cheese Lovers: Try different cheeses like pepper jack, queso fresco, or cotija.
  • Breakfast Style: Swap beef for scrambled eggs and add bacon or sausage.

Storage/Reheating

Walking Tacos are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftover taco meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave before assembling new Walking Tacos.

Walking Tacos

FAQs

What kind of chips work best for Walking Tacos?

Doritos, Fritos, and plain tortilla chips are popular choices, but any sturdy chips will work.

Can I make Walking Tacos in advance?

You can prep the toppings and cook the meat ahead of time, but assemble them just before serving to keep the chips crisp.

Are Walking Tacos gluten-free?

They can be if you use gluten-free chips and taco seasoning.

What toppings can I add?

Common toppings include cheese, sour cream, lettuce, tomatoes, salsa, guacamole, jalapeños, and cilantro.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the meat for black beans, pinto beans, or a plant-based meat substitute.

How do I serve Walking Tacos for a party?

Set up a taco bar with bags of chips and a variety of toppings so guests can customize their own.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Shredded or ground chicken works well with taco seasoning.

What’s the best way to transport Walking Tacos for an event?

Keep the meat warm in a slow cooker and bring all toppings in separate containers. Assemble on-site for the best results.

Do Walking Tacos get soggy?

If left sitting too long, the chips can soften. It’s best to eat them immediately after assembling.

Can I use homemade taco seasoning?

Yes! Mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt for a homemade blend.

Conclusion

Walking Tacos are the perfect blend of fun and convenience, making them a great choice for any gathering. Whether you’re serving them at a party, camping, or just looking for an easy dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Try different toppings and variations to make them your own!

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Walking Tacos

Walking Tacos

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  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 46 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course, Snack
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican-American

Description

Walking Tacos are a no-mess way to enjoy tacos on the go! Instead of using a taco shell, you build your taco right inside a bag of chips. Perfect for parties, tailgates, or busy weeknights, these are fully customizable with your favorite toppings.


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Taco Meat:

  • 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (if using lean meat)
  • 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
  • 1/2 cup water

For the Walking Tacos:

 

  • 46 small bags of Doritos, Fritos, or tortilla chips
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • 1/2 cup guacamole
  • 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)

Instructions

  • Cook the Taco Meat:

    • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned (about 5–7 minutes).
    • Drain excess grease, then add taco seasoning and ½ cup water.
    • Simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring until the meat is well-coated. Remove from heat.
  • Assemble the Walking Tacos:

    • Gently crush the chips inside each bag to make smaller pieces.
    • Carefully cut open the top (or side) of each chip bag.
    • Spoon warm taco meat into each bag.
    • Add lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, salsa, and any other toppings.

 

  • Serve and Enjoy:

    • Stir everything together inside the bag and eat with a fork

Notes

  • Meat options: Swap beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even black beans for a vegetarian version.
  • Spice it up: Add hot sauce or jalapeños for extra heat.
  • Make ahead: Taco meat can be cooked in advance and stored in the fridge for 3–4 days. Just reheat before serving.

 

  • Perfect for parties: Set up a topping bar so everyone can build their own!

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