If you’re looking for a fun, casual, and absolutely delicious way to enjoy all your favorite taco flavors without the hassle of tacos shells or tortillas, this Walking Tacos Recipe is your new go-to. It’s perfect for parties, family dinners, or any time you want a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize and even easier to eat. Each crunchy bag of chips becomes a personal taco bowl loaded with savory seasoned beef, fresh veggies, and melty cheese — pure taco magic that’s sure to bring smiles all around.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Walking Tacos Recipe couldn’t be simpler. The ingredients are straightforward but thoughtfully chosen to deliver bold flavor, crunchy texture, and vibrant color in every bite. Each component plays a key role, from the seasoned beef that carries the savory punch to the crispy chips providing that perfect crunch.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein base that makes these tacos satisfying and flavorful.
- 3 tablespoons taco seasoning (1 packet): Brings that classic zesty taco flavor with a blend of spices.
- 6 (1-ounce) bags corn chips or cheese-flavored tortilla chips: Creates your edible taco shell with unbeatable crunch.
- 1½ cups shredded lettuce: Adds fresh crunch and balances the rich meat.
- 2 roma tomatoes, chopped: Provides juicy bursts of sweetness and color.
- ¼ cup chopped onion: Gives a sharp, punchy flavor that wakes up every bite.
- 1 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese: Melts gently over the warm beef, adding creamy richness (Monterey Jack or Mexican cheese blend works well too).
- Salsa (optional): For those who want a little extra tang and spice.
- Sour cream (optional): Adds a cool, creamy finish that’s totally irresistible.
How to Make Walking Tacos Recipe
Step 1: Cook and Season the Ground Beef
Start by adding your ground beef and taco seasoning into a skillet over medium heat. The secret here is to let the beef cook evenly while stirring occasionally so it browns nicely and absorbs all those vibrant taco spices. This gives you a rich, savory base that carries the whole dish.
Step 2: Brown the Meat Thoroughly
Keep cooking until the beef is browned all the way through, which usually takes about 7 to 10 minutes. Breaking the meat apart into smaller crumbles helps it cook evenly and makes sure every bite has that perfect texture.
Step 3: Drain Excess Grease
Once your beef is cooked and fragrant, carefully drain the grease from the skillet to keep the walking tacos from becoming soggy or greasy. This step ensures your finished dish stays balanced and fresh.
Step 4: Prep the Chip Bags
Grab those small bags of chips and slice each one open on the long side carefully, creating a little pouch but keeping most of the chips intact. This makes for a fun and portable taco experience where the chips double as your edible bowl.
Step 5: Assemble the Walking Tacos
Now, scoop a generous portion of the warm taco meat right into each chip bag. Top with shredded lettuce, juicy chopped tomatoes, and crisp onions for that fresh, garden-fresh contrast.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Optional Extras
Finish with a sprinkle of gooey shredded cheddar cheese so it can slightly melt into the warm meat, then feel free to add salsa and sour cream for an extra layer of flavor and creaminess that truly rounds out the dish.
How to Serve Walking Tacos Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your Walking Tacos Recipe is where you can get creative and add your personal touch. Fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or a squeeze of lime juice adds brightness and a little extra zing that makes the flavors pop even more. Don’t forget a dollop of guacamole for creamy goodness!
Side Dishes
Walking tacos are hearty on their own, but they pair beautifully with crunchy veggie sticks, Mexican street corn, or a simple black bean salad. Each side adds texture or fresh flavor that complements the richness of the taco meat.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the walking tacos in their opened chip bags for a casual party vibe, or scoop all the contents into mini bowls for a slightly more elegant presentation. Either way, they’re easy to eat without plates or utensils, which is perfect for outdoor gatherings and makes cleanup a breeze.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep leftovers tasting fresh, store the cooked taco meat separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the chips and fresh toppings in separate containers as well, so they stay crisp and vibrant when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Freezing
The seasoned ground beef freezes wonderfully. Portion it out into freezer-safe bags or containers, label, and freeze for up to three months. When you want walking tacos again, just thaw the meat overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover taco meat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Be sure to add fresh toppings and chips just before serving to keep that iconic crunch and freshness intact.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives that work well with taco seasoning. Just cook them until fully browned and follow the same assembly steps for your walking tacos.
What type of chips work best for walking tacos?
Corn chips or cheese-flavored tortilla chips are classic choices because they hold up well and add lots of crunch. Avoid chips that are too thin or easily crushed to keep that satisfying texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it can be! Just make sure your taco seasoning and chips are labeled gluten-free and avoid any toppings that might contain gluten. This makes walking tacos an inclusive option for those with dietary restrictions.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Definitely! Substitute the ground beef with seasoned cooked lentils, beans, or a plant-based meat crumble to create a tasty vegetarian version of this Walking Tacos Recipe.
How spicy is this recipe?
It’s generally mild to medium depending on your taco seasoning choice and salsa. You can always adjust the spice level with hotter seasonings, fresh jalapeños, or spicy salsa if you like it with some kick.
Final Thoughts
This Walking Tacos Recipe is a wonderful way to bring everyone together around a meal that’s casual, fun, and bursting with flavor. Whether for a game day, family dinner, or simple snack, these portable taco bags are sure to delight. Give it a try and watch how quickly this simple, satisfying dish becomes a beloved favorite in your recipe rotation.
Print
Walking Tacos Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
A fun and easy crowd-pleaser, Walking Tacos combine seasoned ground beef with crunchy corn chips and fresh toppings for a portable meal perfect for parties, game days, or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Meat and Seasoning
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3 tablespoons taco seasoning (1 packet)
Chips
- 6 (1-ounce) bags corn chips or cheese-flavored tortilla chips
Fresh Toppings
- 1½ cups shredded lettuce
- 2 roma tomatoes, chopped (or any kind)
- ¼ cup chopped onion
Cheese and Extras
- 1 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese (Monterey Jack or Mexican blend are great too)
- Salsa (optional, for serving)
- Sour cream (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Season and Cook Beef: Add the ground beef and taco seasoning to a skillet set over medium heat.
- Brown the Beef: Cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
- Drain Grease: Carefully drain the excess grease from the skillet to make the mixture less oily.
- Prepare Chip Bags: Cut open each bag of chips along the long side to create a convenient serving container.
- Assemble Walking Tacos: Add a scoop of the seasoned taco meat into each bag, then top with shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, chopped onions, and shredded cheese.
- Optional Toppings: Serve with salsa and sour cream on the side for added flavor.
Notes
- Feel free to customize toppings to your liking, including jalapeños, olives, or avocado.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with seasoned beans or meat alternatives.
- Use sturdy chip bags that can hold the ingredients without tearing.
- These are perfect for outdoor events or casual meals on the go.
