Walking Tacos

There’s something uniquely fun about Walking Tacos. I remember the first time I encountered them at a summer picnic. As the sun shone brightly and laughter danced in the air, one of my friends whipped out a bag of Fritos, filled it with seasoned beef, fresh veggies, and toppings, and voilà! A meal you could eat on the go, no plate required. The crunchy texture of the chips, paired with the flavorful seasoned beef and a variety of toppings, creates a delightful explosion of flavors with each bite. It wasn’t just a meal; it was an experience, a moment of joy shared with friends under the warm sun. Now, every time summer rolls around, I find myself craving those vibrant Walking Tacos. They’re not just food; they’re a reminder of cherished memories and good times spent with loved ones.

What’s In This Walking Tacos

The ingredients for Walking Tacos are simple yet flavorful. Each component plays a crucial role in creating that perfect bite. The key players are the seasoned ground beef and the crunchy corn chips, which serve as the base. Fresh veggies like lettuce, tomatoes, and avocados add a refreshing touch, while toppings like cheese and sour cream give that rich, creamy finish. Together, these ingredients create a delightful mix of textures and flavors that are hard to resist.

• 1/2 pound lean ground beef: This is the star protein of the dish, providing a savory foundation that pairs beautifully with spices and toppings.
• salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning, these spices enhance the natural flavors of the beef.
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced: Adds depth and aroma, making the beef irresistible.
• 1 rib celery, diced: Introduces a nice crunch and subtle sweetness.
• 1/2 yellow onion, diced: Offers sweetness and savory notes, enriching the flavor profile.
• 14.5 ounce can crushed tomatoes: Provides moisture and a tangy base for the taco filling.
• 16 ounce can chili beans, partially drained: Adds heartiness and texture to the mix, making it more filling.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully on top, adding a creamy, cheesy goodness.
• 1 romaine heart, finely chopped: Freshens up the dish with a crisp texture.
• 1 large tomato, diced: Brings juiciness and a burst of flavor.
• 1 avocado, peeled, seeded, and chopped: Adds creaminess and healthy fats.
• 1 small can sliced olives, optional: Provides a briny flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• sour cream, for topping: A cooling element that balances the spices in the dish.
• salsa, for topping: Adds a zesty kick and extra moisture.
• 5 (1 oz bags) Fritos corn chips, or Doritos: The vessel for all the delicious fillings, offering crunch and flavor.
• 2 teaspoons chili powder: Essential for that classic taco flavor.
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
• 1/8 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle onion flavor to the seasoning mix.
• 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Provides a bit of heat; adjust to your taste.
• 1/8 teaspoon dried oregano: A fragrant herb that adds a touch of earthiness.
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika: Contributes a sweet and smoky flavor.
• 3/4 teaspoon ground cumin: A warm spice that’s essential for taco seasoning.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Final seasoning to tie all the flavors together.

Cooking Instructions for Walking Tacos

Making Walking Tacos is a breeze, and it’s a dish that’s sure to impress your family or guests. Let’s dive into the steps that will guide you to create this delightful meal.

1. First, gather all the spices for the taco seasoning. In a small bowl, combine chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, dried oregano, and paprika. Set this mix aside for later; it will add a lot of flavor to your Walking Tacos.

2. Next, in a large skillet, heat the pan over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef into the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. As the beef starts cooking, use a spatula to break it into small pieces. Keep cooking until it’s browned and fully cooked through, which should take about five to seven minutes. Look for a nice brown color on the meat.

3. Once the beef is cooked, carefully drain the excess grease. This step is important for keeping the Walking Tacos from becoming greasy. After draining, add the minced garlic to the pan. Stir it in for about a minute until it becomes fragrant.

4. Now, it’s time to add the crushed tomatoes and the drained chili beans. Sprinkle in your pre-made taco seasoning mix. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This should take about two to three minutes. Watching the colors blend together is always rewarding!

5. Reduce the heat to low and allow the mixture to simmer for fifteen minutes. Stir occasionally, letting all those wonderful flavors meld together. As it simmers, the smell will fill your kitchen, making your mouth water.

6. After the mixture has simmered, it’s time to assemble your Walking Tacos. Grab the bags of Fritos (or Doritos) and carefully open them up. You want enough room at the top to add your filling without making a mess!

7. Using a ladle or spoon, add a generous scoop of the beef and bean mixture into each bag of chips. Be sure to fill it up nicely; it’s all about the balance of flavors and textures!

8. Now comes the fun part—top your tacos! Add a handful of chopped romaine, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, diced tomatoes, chopped avocado, and a few sliced olives if you like. Don’t forget a dollop of sour cream and a spoonful of salsa for that extra zing.

9. Finally, grab a fork or just dig in with your hands. Enjoy your delicious and fun Walking Tacos! They’re perfect for sharing, but I won’t blame you if you want to keep them all to yourself.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There are countless ways to make Walking Tacos your own. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute beef with black beans or lentils for a vegetarian-friendly dish.
• Spice Level: Adjust the spice level by adding more or less of the crushed red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.
• Different Chips: Experiment with different chip varieties, such as tortilla chips or even kettle-cooked chips for added crunch.
• Extra Toppings: Consider adding jalapeños, diced red onions, or pickled veggies for an added flavor boost.
• Meal Prep: Prepare the beef mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for easy assembly when you’re ready to eat.

Serving Options for Walking Tacos

When it comes to serving Walking Tacos, the possibilities are as exciting as the recipe itself. Here are some ideas to consider:

• Fun Family Dinners: Create a DIY taco bar where everyone can customize their own Walking Tacos.
• Picnics and BBQs: They’re perfect for outdoor gatherings. Just prepare everything ahead of time for easy transport.
• Game Day Snacks: These make for excellent finger food while cheering on your team. Set up a spread with various toppings.
• School Lunches: Send your kids to school with a fun twist on lunch; pack the taco mixture separately for freshness.
• Seasonal Pairings: In the summer, complement your Walking Tacos with fresh fruit salads or corn on the cob.
• Leftover Lunches: Prepare a batch with any leftover taco ingredients for a quick lunch option during the week.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Walking Tacos are a delightful and interactive meal that brings joy to any gathering. Their versatility allows for endless customization, making them perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try this fun twist on a classic dish; you won’t be disappointed! Enjoy the crunch, the flavor, and the smiles they bring to your table.

Walking Tacos

The ultimate comfort food, Walking Tacos combine savory ground beef, crunchy chips, and fresh toppings for an easy weeknight dinner. These delicious, handheld meals are perfect for gatherings and always a hit with family and friends. Make them tonight for a fun twist on taco night!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 5 servings

Course: Appetizers, Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1/2 pound lean ground beef
• salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 rib celery, diced
• 1/2 yellow onion diced
• 14.5 ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 16 ounce can chili beans, partially drained
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 romaine heart, finely chopped
• 1 large tomato, diced
• 1 avocado, peeled, seeded and chopped
• 1 small can sliced olives, optional
• sour cream, for topping
• salsa, for topping
• 5 (1 oz bags) Fritos corn chips, or Doritos
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/8 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/8 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 3/4 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Equipment

• Meat Chopper

Method

 

1. Combine all of the taco seasoning spices in a small bowl and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat add the ground beef and season with salt and pepper.
3. Add the chopped onion and celery and cook until meat is browned, breaking it into small pieces. Remove grease. Add minced garlic. Add crushed tomatoes, chili beans, and taco seasoning.
4. Stir and bring to a simmer. Simmer over low heat for fifteen minutes.
5. Open bags of Fritos chips. Add a ladle-full of chili mixture, and top with a handful of chopped lettuce, shredded cheese, tomatoes, avocados, olives, and a spoonful of sour cream and salsa. Enjoy!

Notes

• Make-ahead Instructions: The beef mixture can be made 2-3 days ahead of time (depending on the freshness of the ingredients), stored in the fridge. Reheat on the stove before serving.
• Freezing Instructions: Allow the chili beef mixture to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Rewarm on the stove.

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Meet Hailey Anderson

My passion is creating food that nourishes your body without sacrificing flavor. I’m our main recipe developer for vibrant salads, smoothies, and feel-good breakfasts. When I’m not blending or chopping, I’m right alongside Brooke and Jenna, helping to cook and test our new dinner and dessert recipes. I’m a firm believer in balance!