Walking Tacos are a fun, convenient, and mess-free way to enjoy a taco! They’re perfect for parties, game nights, camping trips, and even busy weeknights when you want a quick, no-fuss meal. The best part? No plates or bowls—just eat straight from the bag!
Ingredients (Serves 6):
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning—recipe below)
- ¾ cup water
- 6 small (1 oz) bags of Doritos or Fritos
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a Mexican cheese blend)
Toppings (Choose your favorites!):
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Sour cream
- Salsa
- Guacamole
- Sliced jalapeños
- Black olives
- Diced onions
- Hot sauce
- Chopped cilantro
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Meat
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until fully browned (about 6-8 minutes).
- Drain any excess grease.
2. Season the Meat
- Return the drained meat to the skillet.
- Stir in taco seasoning and ¾ cup of water.
- Mix well and let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to absorb.
3. Prepare the Chip Bags
- Before opening, gently crush the Doritos or Fritos inside the bag (be careful not to crush them into crumbs).
- Open the top of the bag to create a pocket.
4. Assemble the Walking Tacos
- Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of seasoned meat into each chip bag.
- Sprinkle cheese on top so it starts melting from the heat of the meat.
- Add your desired toppings (lettuce, tomato, sour cream, etc.).
5. Serve & Enjoy!
- Grab a fork or spoon and mix everything together inside the bag.
- Eat straight from the bag—no plates, no mess!
Homemade Taco Seasoning (Alternative to Packet Seasoning):
Want a more natural flavor? Make your own taco seasoning!
Mix together:
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
This homemade mix is free from preservatives and lets you control the spice level.
Pro Tips for the Best Walking Tacos:
✅ Make it for a Crowd: Set up a Walking Taco Bar with different toppings so guests can customize their own.
✅ Pre-Make the Meat: Cook the taco meat ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.
✅ Use a Spoon or Fork: Mixing everything inside the bag makes it easier to eat.
✅ Double the Meat: If you love extra protein, add more taco meat or mix in black beans for a hearty option.
✅ Make it Healthier: Use baked chips, lean ground turkey, and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
Q&A (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I make these vegetarian?
A: Yes! Use black beans, pinto beans, refried beans, or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat or tofu.
Q: Can I use different types of chips?
A: Absolutely! Try:
- Cool Ranch Doritos for a tangy twist
- Fritos for a classic, salty crunch
- Tostitos for a more traditional nacho-style flavor
Q: Can I make this a meal-prep option?
A: Yes! Store cooked meat in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat and assemble.
Q: Can I make a large batch for a party?
A: Definitely! Just cook 2-3 lbs of meat, set out toppings, and let guests build their own Walking Tacos.
Benefits of Walking Tacos:
✅ Easy & Quick: Ready in under 20 minutes!
✅ Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
✅ Kid-Friendly: Fun for kids to make and eat!
✅ Portable: No plates or bowls needed—perfect for events, picnics, and road trips.
✅ Customizable: Everyone can add their favorite toppings.
Would you like a printable version of this recipe or any specific variations? 😊