Walking Tacos Recipe

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

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

Corn chips: Single-serving bags are used as the base and container for the tacos.

Shredded lettuce: Adds a fresh, crunchy texture to the tacos.

Diced tomatoes: Provides a juicy, tangy element to balance the richness of the beef.

Shredded cheese: Melts slightly over the warm beef, adding a creamy, savory layer.

Sour cream: Adds a cool, tangy contrast to the seasoned beef.

Salsa: Brings a burst of flavor and a bit of heat to the tacos.

When browning the ground beef, make sure to break it up into small crumbles using a wooden spoon or spatula. This ensures even cooking and better texture. Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy final product. Adding the taco seasoning with a bit of water helps the flavors meld together, creating a more cohesive and flavorful filling for your walking tacos.

• ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be seasoned similarly to ground beef.

• ground beef - Substitute with black beans: For a vegetarian option, black beans provide protein and a similar texture.

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

• corn chips - Substitute with tortilla chips: Tortilla chips offer a similar crunch and flavor profile.

• corn chips - Substitute with pita chips: Pita chips provide a different texture but can still hold the toppings well.

• shredded lettuce - Substitute with baby spinach: Baby spinach adds a nutritional boost and a slightly different flavor.

• diced tomatoes - Substitute with salsa: Salsa can add more flavor and moisture compared to plain diced tomatoes.

• shredded cheese - Substitute with vegan cheese: For a dairy-free option, vegan cheese can provide a similar texture and taste.

• sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative with a similar creamy texture.

• sour cream - Substitute with guacamole: Guacamole adds a creamy texture and a different flavor profile.

• salsa - Substitute with pico de gallo: Pico de gallo offers a fresher, chunkier texture with similar flavors.

• Allow the ground beef mixture to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make your corn chips soggy.
• Transfer the cooled seasoned beef into an airtight container. This helps maintain its flavor and prevents any unwanted odors from seeping in.
• Store the shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, and salsa in separate containers. This keeps each ingredient fresh and crisp.
• Place the containers in the refrigerator if you plan to use them within 3-4 days. This ensures all ingredients remain fresh and safe to eat.
• For longer storage, freeze the seasoned beef in a freezer-safe container or bag. Label it with the date to keep track of its freshness.
• When ready to use, thaw the seasoned beef in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing process preserves the texture and flavor.
• Reheat the seasoned beef in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. This brings back the delicious aroma and taste.
• Assemble your walking tacos just before serving to ensure the corn chips remain crunchy and the toppings fresh.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the ground beef mixture on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Add the corn chips and toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, and salsa just before serving.

• Use a microwave-safe dish to reheat the ground beef mixture. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Once heated, transfer to the corn chips bags and add your favorite toppings.

• For a stovetop method, place the ground beef mixture in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. Then, assemble your walking tacos with corn chips and toppings.

• If you have an air fryer, place the ground beef mixture in an air fryer-safe dish. Heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through. Once hot, add to the corn chips and top with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, and salsa.

• For a quick and easy method, use a toaster oven. Place the ground beef mixture in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Assemble your walking tacos with corn chips and toppings once the beef is hot.

• Skillet: used to cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned

• Spatula: helps in stirring and breaking up the ground beef while cooking

• Colander: used to drain any excess fat from the cooked ground beef

• Measuring cup: ensures accurate measurement of ingredients like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, and salsa

• Mixing bowl: can be used to mix the taco seasoning with the cooked ground beef if needed

• Can opener: useful if you need to open a can of salsa

• Knife: used to dice the tomatoes and shred the lettuce

• Cutting board: provides a safe surface for dicing tomatoes and shredding lettuce

• Spoon: helps in spooning the seasoned beef into each bag of chips

• Fork: used for serving and enjoying the walking tacos

Pre-cook the beef: Cook the ground beef ahead of time and store it in the fridge. This way, you only need to reheat it when assembling the walking tacos.

Prep toppings in advance: Dice the tomatoes, shred the lettuce, and grate the cheese the night before. Store them in separate containers for easy access.

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

Ready-to-use seasoning: Opt for a taco seasoning packet to eliminate the need for measuring out spices.

Assemble a toppings station: Set up a toppings station so everyone can customize their walking tacos quickly and easily.