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Easy Walking Tacos Recipe: Fun, Flavorful, and Perfect for Any Occasion

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Walking Tacos are a fun, portable, and delicious twist on the traditional taco. Instead of using a taco shell, the taco fillings are served in a small bag of chips, making them perfect for outdoor gatherings, parties, or even a quick and easy dinner. The best part? You get to customize each taco with your favorite toppings, making them a hit for kids and adults alike.

Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or looking for a fun family meal, Walking Tacos are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. This recipe is easy to make, flexible for various dietary preferences, and guaranteed to satisfy everyone’s cravings.

Recipe Preparation Equipment

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare Walking Tacos:

  • A skillet for cooking the taco filling (ground beef, chicken, or a vegetarian option)
  • A spoon or spatula for stirring
  • A can opener (if using canned beans or chili)
  • Small bags of chips (Fritos or Doritos work great)
  • A small bowl for the toppings

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Walking Tacos:

For the taco filling:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or a vegetarian substitute like black beans)
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
  • 1/2 cup water (to help mix the seasoning)
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans or black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
  • 1 cup salsa (optional, for added flavor)

For the toppings:

  • 2 cups shredded lettuce
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
  • 1/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
  • 1/4 cup guacamole (optional)
  • Jalapeño slices (optional, for spice)
  • 1/4 cup sliced green onions (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)

For the taco base:

  • 6-8 small bags of Fritos or Doritos chips (choose any variety you like)

How to Make Walking Tacos?

Step 1: Prepare the taco filling

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or other protein) until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. Add the taco seasoning and water (as directed on the seasoning packet). Stir to combine and let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens. If using beans, add them to the skillet and stir until heated through. You can also add salsa for extra flavor if desired.

Step 2: Prepare the toppings

While the taco filling is simmering, prepare the toppings. Chop the lettuce, dice the tomatoes, shred the cheese, and get any other toppings ready in small bowls.

Step 3: Assemble the Walking Tacos

To assemble, take a small bag of Fritos or Doritos chips and carefully cut it open. (Don’t rip it all the way—just enough to create an opening.) Gently crush the chips inside the bag to make them easier to eat.

Spoon the warm taco filling over the chips in the bag. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, guacamole, jalapeños, and any other toppings you like. Mix everything together right in the bag for a perfect bite every time.

Step 4: Serve and enjoy

Serve the Walking Tacos immediately! They’re perfect for parties, picnics, or even a fun dinner with the family. The best part is that everyone can customize their own taco bag with their favorite toppings.

Variations

  • Vegetarian Walking Tacos: Use black beans, refried beans, or a plant-based protein instead of meat to make this dish vegetarian or vegan.
  • Spicy Walking Tacos: Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy salsa to kick up the heat.
  • Chicken Walking Tacos: Substitute ground beef with shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breast for a lighter option.
  • Add extra veggies: Feel free to add sautĂ©ed onions, bell peppers, or corn for more texture and flavor.

Cooking Note

Walking Tacos are incredibly versatile and can be made in just a few minutes, making them a perfect choice for a last-minute meal or party dish. The chips can get soggy if left too long with the toppings, so it’s best to serve them immediately after assembling.

Serving Suggestions

Walking Tacos are delicious on their own, but they pair well with:

  • A side of Spanish rice or Mexican-style corn
  • Fresh guacamole and tortilla chips
  • A cold beverage like iced tea or lemonade
  • A side salad with a light dressing

Helpful Tips

  • Use the right chips: Fritos are the traditional choice for Walking Tacos because they have a sturdy texture that holds up well with the taco filling. However, you can use Doritos or other types of chips for a different flavor.
  • Customize toppings: Everyone loves to customize their own taco, so set up a taco bar with all the toppings and let your guests assemble their own bags.
  • Don’t overfill the bags: You want the bag to stay intact, so don’t overstuff it with the taco filling. A little goes a long way!

Tips for the Best Walking Tacos

  • Warm the chips: For an extra touch, you can warm the chips in the oven for a few minutes to make them even more delicious.
  • Prep toppings ahead of time: You can prep the toppings earlier in the day and keep them in the fridge, so all you have to do is cook the taco filling when it’s time to eat.
  • Add variety: Provide a variety of chip options, like classic Fritos, Doritos, or even tortilla chips for a fun mix-and-match experience.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cooking Time:

10 minutes

Total Time:

20 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 1/6th of the recipe):

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 18g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 3g

FAQs

1. Can I make Walking Tacos ahead of time?
While the taco filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, the chips should be added right before serving to keep them crispy.

2. Can I use a different kind of chips?
Yes, you can use tortilla chips, Doritos, or even potato chips for a unique take on Walking Tacos. The key is to use sturdy chips that can hold up to the taco filling.

3. Are Walking Tacos gluten-free?
Walking Tacos can be made gluten-free if you use gluten-free chips and ensure that the taco seasoning and other ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Walking Tacos are a fun and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to parties. With customizable toppings and easy-to-prepare ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a hit with everyone. Whether you’re craving a quick meal or looking for something fun to serve at your next gathering, Walking Tacos are the way to go. Enjoy the crunch, flavor, and fun of this tasty taco twist!

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