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+ servings
image of ground beef packet taco seasoning bag corn chips water broth shredded lettuce diced tomatoes diced onion shredded cheese salsa sour cream arranged on white marble kitchen counter with clear glass bowls and rustic brown wooden kitchen set under soft diffuse daylight
adam saha

Walking Tacos with Ground Beef

This fun and portable recipe transforms simple ground beef tacos into a messy, joyful experience served in individual chip bags, perfect for busy families, parties, or tailgates.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Taco Meat
  • 1 lb Ground Beef 80/20 for best flavor, but lean works too
  • 1 packet (about 1 oz) Taco Seasoning or 2 tbsp homemade
  • 1/2 cup Water or Broth to help bloom spices and create sauce
  • 1 tbsp Oil optional, for browning the meat
For Assembly and Toppings
  • 8 small bags (1 oz each) Individual Bags of Chips Nacho Cheese Doritos or Fritos
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheese cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend
  • 1 cup Shredded Lettuce
  • 1 cup Diced Tomatoes or cherry tomatoes
  • 1 cup Salsa mild or medium, your favorite
  • to taste Sour Cream or Greek yogurt
  • to taste Optional Add-ins black olives, diced onions, jalapeños, or black beans

Equipment

  • Large skillet,
  • Scissors or Sharp Knife
  • Slow Cooker (optional for keeping warm)

Method
 

Prepare the Taco Meat
  1. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the oil if using, then crumble in the ground beef. Cook, stirring occasionally and breaking up the chunks with a wooden spoon, until the meat is completely browned and no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Carefully drain any excess grease from the skillet to avoid oily tacos.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the taco seasoning and water or broth. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid has been absorbed, leaving the meat moist and flavorful.
Assemble the Walking Tacos
  1. While the meat simmers, prepare the chip bags. Locate the sealed end of each small bag and carefully slice it open with scissors about halfway down the side to create a larger opening.
  2. Gently crush the chips inside the bag slightly to create more surface area for toppings.
  3. Place the seasoned ground beef in a slow cooker (set to Warm) or a serving dish to keep it hot. Arrange toppings nearby.
  4. Take an open chip bag. Spoon 2 large scoops of the hot taco meat into the bag. Top with shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, salsa, and sour cream. Shake gently to mix, then enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 20g

Notes

Pro Tips: Keep the meat moist for the best flavor absorption into chips. Serve hot for melty cheese. Variations: Use ground turkey for lighter option or add jalapeños for spice. Storage: Store cooled meat in fridge for 3-4 days or freezer for 3 months; reheat stovetop with water added. Thaw frozen meat overnight in fridge. Ideal for crowds with a taco bar setup. Minimal cleanup is a big plus!
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
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