Experience the ultimate in convenient, customizable, and utterly delicious dining with Walking Tacos! Perfect for parties, busy weeknights, or a fun family meal, these handheld delights transform your favorite taco flavors into a portable feast. Easy to assemble and even easier to enjoy, prepare to elevate your casual dining experience without the fuss and mess of traditional tacos.
THE ULTIMATE PARTY FOOD: WALKING TACOS UNVEILED
Planning food for gatherings, whether it’s a vibrant birthday celebration, a community potluck, a spirited sports banquet, or a casual backyard BBQ, often presents a unique challenge: how do you satisfy a diverse crowd, including picky eaters, without spending hours in the kitchen or dealing with a mountain of dishes? Enter the ingenious solution: Doritos Walking Tacos. This innovative meal concept takes the beloved flavors of tacos and reinvents them into a fun, individual, and mess-free package, making it the ideal choice for any event.
Walking Tacos, sometimes known as “tacos in a bag” or “Frito Pie” (though often with Fritos chips), have become a staple for their simplicity and universal appeal. The core idea is brilliantly simple: an individual-sized bag of nacho cheese chips (or your preferred flavor/type) serves as both the edible “shell” and the serving bowl. Guests simply open their bag, add their favorite warm fillings and fresh toppings, and enjoy with a fork. This method not only drastically reduces cleanup but also empowers each person to create their perfect taco, ensuring everyone leaves happy and satisfied.
Whether you’re feeding a small family or catering to a large group, the versatility of Walking Tacos is unmatched. With an array of topping options, from savory meats and beans to fresh vegetables and creamy sauces, the culinary possibilities are truly endless. Say goodbye to soggy taco shells and messy plates, and embrace the ease and excitement of our Doritos Walking Tacos recipe. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings all the flavor of a taco fiesta directly to your fingertips!
YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED: WALKING TACO FAQs
Not at all! While Nacho Cheese Doritos are a classic choice and offer a bold, cheesy foundation, the beauty of Walking Tacos lies in customization. Feel free to experiment with any of your favorite Doritos flavors. Cool Ranch Doritos are a particularly popular alternative, adding a zesty kick that complements the taco fillings beautifully. Other great options include Spicy Nacho, Sweet Chili Heat, or even plain tortilla chips for a more traditional taco flavor. Offering a variety of chip flavors can make your Walking Taco bar even more exciting for guests!
The most popular and highly recommended way to serve Walking Tacos is by setting up a self-serve “taco bar.” This involves arranging individual bags of Doritos (or other chips), along with all your prepared toppings, on a large table or counter. Guests can then grab a bag, open it, gently crush the chips (optional but recommended for easier mixing), and then proceed to load it with their desired ingredients. This interactive approach is fantastic for events as it caters to every taste and dietary preference, making it perfect for even the pickiest eaters. Provide plenty of forks, napkins, and perhaps a designated area for discarded empty bags.
The topping possibilities for Walking Tacos are virtually endless, allowing for maximum creativity and personalization. Beyond the essential seasoned taco meat and cheese, consider offering a vibrant array of fresh and flavorful additions. Popular choices include classic salsa (mild, medium, or hot), creamy guacamole, tangy sour cream or Greek yogurt, diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick, and fresh cilantro. For a heartier meal, you might also include refried beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans. Don’t forget a squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten all the flavors. Think about different textures – crunchy lettuce, smooth avocado, juicy tomatoes – to create a truly dynamic taco experience.
We highly recommend enjoying Walking Tacos immediately after assembly for the best taste and texture. Once assembled, the chips tend to get soggy quickly from the moisture of the meat and toppings, compromising the experience. However, all the individual components can be prepared and stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This allows for convenient meal prepping. Simply assemble the tacos right before serving to maintain the freshness and crunch of the chips. Cooked taco meat typically lasts 3-4 days in the fridge, while chopped vegetables and sauces have varying shelf lives.
Absolutely, making the taco meat in advance is a fantastic way to streamline your preparation process, especially when feeding a crowd. We often use our Crock Pot Taco Meat recipe for this purpose. Preparing the meat in a slow cooker allows it to simmer to perfection, infusing it with rich flavors, and most importantly, it can stay warm in the crock pot until you’re ready to serve. This is incredibly convenient for parties, ensuring hot and ready fillings without last-minute scrambling. You can also cook ground beef with taco seasoning on the stovetop a day or two before, then reheat gently when needed.
You bet! The “walking” concept extends delightfully into the dessert realm, offering equally fun and portable sweet treats. We absolutely adore Walking Banana Pudding, where crushed vanilla wafers and fresh bananas meet creamy pudding in a bag. Another crowd-pleaser is Walking Strawberry Pretzel Salad, combining salty pretzels, sweet strawberries, and a luscious cream cheese mixture. For cheesecake lovers, try Walking Strawberry Cheesecakes, featuring crushed graham crackers, rich cheesecake filling, and fresh strawberries. These dessert versions are perfect for rounding out your party menu or for a unique sweet snack. If you enjoy the savory Walking Tacos, you’ll definitely want to explore these delicious dessert adaptations!
ESSENTIAL INGREDIENTS FOR YOUR WALKING TACO ADVENTURE
Crafting the perfect Walking Taco begins with selecting high-quality ingredients that promise a burst of flavor in every bite. While the full recipe card below provides precise measurements, here’s a detailed look at the core components and why they make these handheld meals so special:
- Doritos (or Your Favorite Chips): The foundation of our Walking Taco! While Nacho Cheese Doritos offer that classic, bold flavor, don’t hesitate to branch out. Cool Ranch, Spicy Sweet Chili, or even basic tortilla chips or Fritos can be fantastic. Consider offering a small assortment of chips to cater to different preferences. The individual bags are key for convenience and portion control, making cleanup a breeze.
- Seasoned Taco Meat: This is the heart of your Walking Taco. A pound of perfectly seasoned ground beef or turkey provides a savory, robust filling. You can prepare this by browning ground meat and seasoning it with a packet of store-bought taco seasoning mixed with water, as per package instructions. For an even more flavorful and convenient option, our Crock Pot Taco Meat recipe is ideal, keeping the meat warm and ready for serving. Alternatively, you can use our Homemade Taco Seasoning for a fresh, preservative-free flavor. While taco meat is standard, some prefer chili (especially with Fritos), or even seasoned shredded chicken for a different twist.
- Black Beans: A versatile and hearty addition, black beans bring a touch of earthy flavor and extra protein to your taco. We understand that beans can be a love-or-hate ingredient, so feel free to include them as an option or substitute them with other beans like pinto or kidney beans, or even a flavorful refried bean spread. Just remember to drain and rinse canned beans thoroughly before serving.
- Colby Jack Cheese: The vibrant orange and white marbling of Colby Jack cheese not only looks appealing but also offers a mild, creamy, and slightly tangy flavor that melts beautifully into the warm taco meat. Shredded cheese is best for ease of distribution. Feel free to use your favorite cheese variety – cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend would also be excellent choices. Offering a few different kinds can add another layer of customization for your guests.
- Your Favorite Taco Toppings: This is where the fun really begins! A generous assortment of fresh and flavorful toppings allows everyone to build their dream taco. Commonly, we set out vibrant diced tomatoes for freshness, briny sliced black olives, a dollop of cool sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative), a spoonful of zesty salsa, and creamy homemade guacamole. Consider adding finely chopped red onions, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, a few slices of spicy jalapeños, or even a squeeze of fresh lime juice to elevate the flavors. The more options, the merrier!
CRAFTING YOUR PERFECT WALKING TACO: STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE
Making Walking Tacos is delightfully straightforward, perfect for a quick family meal or a large party. Follow these simple steps to assemble your delicious, mess-free meal:
Step One: Prepare Your Chip Bags. Begin by gently opening or cutting off the tops of your individual Doritos bags. For easier eating and mixing, gently fold the sides of the bag down slightly, creating a more stable “bowl.” Many enthusiasts also like to gently crush the Doritos inside the sealed bag before opening. This breaks the chips into smaller, more manageable pieces, making them easier to mix with the fillings and creating a texture closer to a taco salad. (This crushing technique is shown in the accompanying video, though not in the initial photo.)
Step Two: Layer Your Core Fillings. Next, carefully add a generous portion of your prepared seasoned taco meat into each bag. Follow this with a layer of black beans (if using), spreading them evenly over the meat. Finally, sprinkle a hearty amount of shredded Colby Jack cheese over the beans. The warmth from the meat and beans will begin to gently melt the cheese, creating a gooey, irresistible texture.
Step Three: Add Your Favorite Toppings. Now comes the best part – customizing your Walking Taco with a rainbow of fresh toppings! Spoon in dollops of creamy guacamole, cool sour cream, and zesty salsa. Add texture and flavor with diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, and a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro. For an extra zing, include a lime wedge on the side. The combination of warm and cool, crunchy and creamy, creates a perfectly balanced and incredibly satisfying experience.
Optional Finishing Touch: Mix and Enjoy! Once all your desired ingredients are in the bag, you have an optional final step. Squeeze a fresh lime wedge over the top for a bright citrus note, then grab a fork and gently mix all the ingredients together right inside the bag. This ensures every bite is packed with all the wonderful flavors and textures. Then simply dig in and savor your delicious, mess-free Walking Taco!
BEYOND THE BASICS: TIPS FOR THE BEST WALKING TACOS
While the concept of Walking Tacos is straightforward, a few clever tips can elevate your experience from good to absolutely unforgettable. Here’s how to make your Walking Taco bar truly shine:
- Chip Variety is Key: Don’t limit yourself to just one type of chip. Offering a selection—Nacho Cheese Doritos, Cool Ranch Doritos, Fritos, and even plain tortilla chips—ensures there’s something for everyone and adds an exciting element of choice.
- Keep Fillings Warm: For optimal enjoyment, make sure your seasoned taco meat and any warm bean options are kept at a serving temperature. A slow cooker (crock-pot) is your best friend here, especially for parties, as it keeps the meat perfectly warm without drying it out.
- Prep Everything Ahead: To minimize stress on the day of your event, chop all vegetables, prepare salsas, guacamole, and shred cheese in advance. Store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. This “mise en place” approach makes assembly a breeze.
- Label Your Toppings: If you have a wide array of toppings, especially if some are spicy or unusual, clear labels can be very helpful for guests to navigate their choices.
- Consider Dietary Restrictions: Walking Tacos are inherently customizable, making them great for various dietary needs. Offer vegetarian protein options like seasoned black beans, lentils, or plant-based crumbles. Ensure you have gluten-free chip options if needed. Provide dairy-free sour cream or cheese alternatives if catering to guests with lactose intolerance.
- The “Crush” Factor: Encourage guests to gently crush their chips inside the bag before adding toppings. This creates smaller, more scoopable pieces that blend better with the fillings, preventing large, awkward chip bites.
- Presentation Matters: Even though it’s a casual meal, arranging your toppings in colorful bowls or platters makes the taco bar more inviting and appealing. Add some fresh lime wedges and cilantro sprigs for garnish.
- Provide Ample Utensils and Napkins: While designed to be less messy, forks are essential for mixing and eating. And everyone appreciates a good supply of napkins!
EXPLORE MORE TACO-INSPIRED DELIGHTS
If you’ve fallen in love with the convenience and flavor of Walking Tacos, you’re in for a treat! The world of taco-inspired recipes is vast and delicious, offering endless ways to enjoy those irresistible Mexican flavors. Here are some other fantastic recipes from our kitchen that you’re sure to crave:
- Doritos Taco Salad: A classic salad with a crunchy Doritos twist, perfect for a lighter meal.
- Doritos Taco Casserole: All your favorite taco flavors baked into a comforting casserole, ideal for family dinners.
- Taco Bell Mexican Pizza: Recreate this iconic fast-food favorite at home with our easy recipe.
- Taco Pasta Salad: A refreshing and hearty pasta salad, great for potlucks or picnics.
- Walking Frito Chili Pie: Another beloved “walking” meal, featuring Fritos, chili, and cheese in a bag.
- Walking Banana Pudding: A delightful and portable dessert version, perfect for sweet cravings.
- Walking Strawberry Pretzel Salad: Sweet, salty, and creamy – this dessert in a bag is a true treat.
- Walking S’mores: Enjoy the campfire classic in a convenient, mess-free pouch, no campfire needed!
- Walking Strawberry Cheesecake: Indulgent cheesecake flavors layered in a portable bag.
- Hillbilly Tacos: A unique and delicious take on tacos, offering a comforting flavor profile.
- Wonton Taco Cups: Bite-sized, crispy taco cups that are perfect as appetizers or light snacks.
- Taco Rice: A simple, flavorful, one-pan dinner that combines seasoned ground meat and rice.
Walking Taco Recipe
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Ingredients
- 8 (1 ounce) bags Nacho Cheese Doritos
- 1 pound prepared seasoned taco meat (see notes below)
- 1 cup black beans
- 1 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese
- your favorite taco toppings
Instructions
- Open or cut off the tops of 8 (1 ounce) bags Nacho Cheese Doritos. Fold down the sides slightly; this makes the “tacos” easier to eat.
Note: We recommend crushing the Doritos a bit before opening. This makes them easier to mix and eat (shown in video, not main photo).
- Divide the 1 pound prepared seasoned taco meat, 1 cup black beans (if using), and 1 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese among the bags.
- Add your favorite taco toppings like guacamole, sour cream, salsa, diced tomatoes, olives, fresh chopped cilantro, and/or lime wedges.
- Optional: Squeeze a little lime juice over the top and mix everything together. Grab a fork and enjoy!
Video
Notes
- This recipe is fantastic for setting up as a taco bar, allowing guests to build their own personalized Walking Tacos from various bags and ingredients.
- For ultimate convenience, we love using our Crock Pot Taco Meat for this recipe. It stays warm and flavorful in the slow cooker, ready for serving. Alternatively, you can use a packet of store-bought taco seasoning and prepare ground meat according to package directions, or make your own Homemade Taco Seasoning. While taco meat is standard, chili is another popular filling (often best paired with Fritos).
- For additional ingredient substitutions or answers to common questions, please refer to our FAQ section and detailed ingredient list above.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 23g |
Protein: 18g |
Fat: 24g |
Sodium: 312mg |
Fiber: 3g |
Sugar: 1g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.