Walking Tacos Recipe

Ground beef: The main protein for the tacos, providing a rich and savory flavor.

Taco seasoning: A blend of spices that gives the beef its classic taco flavor.

Single-serve bags of corn chips: The base of the walking taco, adding a crunchy texture.

Shredded lettuce: Adds a fresh and crisp element to the tacos.

Shredded cheese: Melts slightly over the warm beef, adding a creamy and tangy flavor.

Diced tomatoes: Provides a juicy and slightly acidic contrast to the other ingredients.

Sour cream: Adds a cool and creamy element to balance the spices.

Salsa: Adds a bit of heat and additional flavor to the tacos.

To ensure the ground beef is evenly browned and flavorful, break it up into small pieces as it cooks using a wooden spoon or spatula. This allows for more even cooking and better absorption of the taco seasoning. Additionally, after adding the seasoning, let the beef simmer for a few minutes to fully incorporate the flavors. When crushing the corn chips, do so gently to avoid turning them into crumbs; you want bite-sized pieces that will hold the toppings well.

• ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and provides a similar texture and flavor profile.

• taco seasoning - Substitute with homemade spice mix: Combine chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and oregano for a customizable and preservative-free alternative.

• corn chips - Substitute with tortilla chips: Tortilla chips offer a similar crunch and can be found in various flavors to suit your taste.

• shredded lettuce - Substitute with shredded cabbage: Shredded cabbage provides a similar crunch and can add a slightly different flavor profile.

• shredded cheese - Substitute with crumbled queso fresco: Queso fresco adds a creamy texture and a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients.

• diced tomatoes - Substitute with salsa fresca: Salsa fresca adds a bit more flavor and moisture, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

• sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative that offers a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor.

• salsa - Substitute with pico de gallo: Pico de gallo provides a fresh, chunky texture and vibrant flavor that can elevate the dish.

• Allow the cooked ground beef to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the meat soggy.
• Transfer the cooled ground beef into an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Label it with the date for easy reference.
• Store the ground beef in the refrigerator if you plan to use it within 3-4 days. For longer storage, place it in the freezer, where it can last up to 3 months.
• Keep the shredded lettuce, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and salsa in separate containers. This ensures that each ingredient stays fresh and maintains its texture.
• For the shredded lettuce, wrap it in a paper towel before placing it in a container or plastic bag. This absorbs excess moisture and keeps the lettuce crisp.
• Store the shredded cheese in an airtight container or resealable bag in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to a week.
• Place the diced tomatoes in a container with a tight-fitting lid. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
• Keep the sour cream and salsa in their original containers, ensuring the lids are tightly sealed. Both can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• When ready to serve, reheat the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a microwave-safe dish, stirring occasionally.
• Assemble the walking tacos by opening the bags of corn chips and gently crushing the chips inside. Spoon the reheated ground beef into each bag, and top with the fresh ingredients as desired.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the leftover ground beef on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• For a quicker method, use a microwave. Place the ground beef in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a microwave-safe lid or plate, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• If you have a stovetop, reheat the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
• To keep the corn chips crispy, reheat them separately. Spread them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
• Reheat the salsa and sour cream by placing them in small, microwave-safe bowls. Heat in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or until they reach your desired temperature.
• For the shredded cheese, you can either add it cold or let it melt slightly by placing it on the hot ground beef before serving.
• The shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes should be added fresh to maintain their crisp texture.

• Skillet: Used to cook the ground beef until browned.

• Spatula: Handy for stirring and breaking up the ground beef as it cooks.

• Measuring cup: Useful for measuring out the shredded lettuce, cheese, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and salsa.

• Taco seasoning packet: Contains the seasoning mix to flavor the ground beef.

• Can opener: If your salsa comes in a can, you'll need this to open it.

• Knife: Essential for dicing the tomatoes.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the tomatoes.

• Colander: Useful for draining any excess fat from the cooked ground beef.

• Spoon: For spooning the seasoned beef into the bags of chips.

• Single-serve bags of corn chips: These serve as the edible containers for your walking tacos.

Cook in advance: Prepare the ground beef and taco seasoning mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge.

Pre-chop toppings: Dice the tomatoes, shred the lettuce, and grate the cheese in advance.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Save time by using pre-shredded cheese instead of shredding it yourself.

Single-serve bags: Use single-serve bags of corn chips to eliminate the need for extra dishes.

Assembly line: Set up an assembly line with all toppings so everyone can quickly build their own walking taco.