Walking Taco In A Bag Recipe

There’s just something fun about eating a meal right out of a bag – and that’s exactly what a walking taco in a bag is all about. If you’ve never had one before, it might sound a little odd, but once you try it, you’ll see why so many people love it.

It’s basically a taco that’s served in a small bag of chips instead of a taco shell. Add seasoned meat and your favorite toppings, and you’ve got a portable meal you can take on the go or enjoy right at home without any plates to wash.

This meal brings back a lot of memories for me. Back when our boys played baseball, we’d spend almost every summer evening at the field.

And that meant many nights we would improvise and have dinner from the concession stand. Although there were always hot dogs and hamburgers, my favorite thing to order was a Walking Taco In A Bag.

It was quick, filling, and easy to eat while I watched the game. Funny how something so simple can stick with you for years.

Of course, I don’t need a ball field to enjoy these anymore. They’re just as good (maybe even better) when I make them at home. And best of all? Everyone gets to make theirs just the way they like it.

What Is a Walking Taco?

A walking taco is a clever spin on a classic taco. Instead of a taco shell, you use a small bag of chips – usually Nacho Cheese Doritos, but Fritos, Cool Ranch Doritos, or even Tostitos work just as well.

The bag gets cut open, and then it’s filled with taco-seasoned meat and toppings like cheese, lettuce, salsa, and sour cream. It’s called a walking taco because it’s easy to eat while standing or walking around, making it perfect for casual gatherings, tailgates, picnics, or sports events.

But you don’t need to be on your feet to enjoy it. Set it on the table, grab a fork, and dig in.

Choose Your Protein

Traditionally, walking tacos are made with taco seasoned ground beef. But don’t feel like you have to stick with beef.

Here are a few great options:

• Ground turkey: A leaner alternative that still works well with taco seasoning.
• Ground chicken: Light, tender, and quick to cook – perfect for a mild taco flavor.
• Plant-based crumbles: Great for vegetarians or anyone trying to cut back on meat. Most brands cook just like ground beef and absorb taco seasoning easily.

Whichever one you choose, the process is the same: cook it, season it, and spoon it right into the chip bag.

Toppings Galore

The best thing about a walking taco (and my Taco Baked Potatoes Recipe) is how customizable it is. Everyone gets their own little taco bag and can build it exactly how they want. You can stick with the basics or go all out.

Popular toppings include:

• Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• Diced tomatoes
• Diced onions
• Shredded lettuce
• Salsa
• Sour cream
• Guacamole
• Sliced jalapeños
• Chopped cilantro
• Hot sauce

Want to make it more filling? Add black beans or corn. Want it spicy? Try some pickled jalapeños or chipotle sauce. The options are endless.

What Chips Should You Use?

The chip you choose sets the tone for your walking taco. Here are a few favorites:

• Nacho Cheese Doritos – Adds extra cheesy flavor
• Fritos Corn Chips – Classic and crunchy
• Cool Ranch Doritos – Great if you like a tangy twist
• Tostitos (small bags) – Perfect if you want a more neutral flavor

If you’re not sure which one to go with, buy a couple and mix it up. It’s a great way to get the flavor of more than one variety.

Quick tip: Crush the chips just a little before opening the bag. That way, you’ll have bite-sized pieces that are easier to eat with a fork once the toppings are added.

Why Cut the Bag on the Side?

One thing that I have learned over the years is a simple step can make a big difference: cut the chip bag open on the side, not at the top. Cutting the side gives you a wider opening so it’s easier to add toppings, but more importantly, easier to eat out of.

After you crush the chips use a pair of scissors and cut across the side of the bag. Then you will have a large enough opening to easily add the remaining ingredients.

Walking Taco In A Bag Recipe

*A printable recipe card is located at the bottom of this article which contains the specific measurements, temperatures and cook times. However, continue reading below to learn about more helpful tips about this specific recipe.

*A printable recipe card is located at the bottom of this article which contains the specific measurements, temperatures and cook times. However, continue reading below to learn about more helpful tips about this specific recipe.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1/2 pound ground beef
• 1/2 packet taco seasoning mix
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 small (2.5-ounce) bags of Doritos, Fritos, or tortilla chips

Optional Toppings:

• Diced tomatoes
• Diced onions
• Shredded cheese
• Shredded lettuce
• Salsa
• Sour cream
• Guacamole
• Jalapeños
• Cilantro

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or other protein), breaking it up as it browns. Cook until no longer pink and fully cooked through.
2. Drain any excess grease if needed.
3. Add taco seasoning and water. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and cook uncovered for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.
5. While the meat is simmering, gently crush each bag of chips and cut the side of each bag open with scissors.
6. Spoon the seasoned meat into each bag of chips.
7. Add your favorite toppings, grab a fork, and enjoy!

Can You Make It Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can cook the meat a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it in a skillet or microwave. This makes things even easier if you need a quick weeknight dinner on the go.

How to Double or Triple This Walking Taco In A Bag Recipe

Although this is a great meal for two, walking tacos are great for a crowd because they’re mess-free, easy to serve, and everyone can make their own just how they like it. If you’re feeding more than just a few people, try setting up a walking taco bar.

Here’s how:

• Prepare the seasoned meat ahead of time and keep it warm in a slow cooker or on the stovetop.
• Set out bowls of toppings.
• Lay out a variety of small chip bags – if it is part of a larger spread of food, 1 ounce snack chips bags work great.
• Add utensils and napkins and you’re good to go.

This works great for birthday parties, game nights, family reunions, graduation celebrations, and casual backyard get-togethers. People love making their own taco combination, and it’s less cleanup for you.

As a general rule, 1 pound of meat serves about 5 walking tacos (if you are using the smaller snack size bags). If you’re feeding a larger group, just scale up the meat and toppings accordingly.

For example:

• 1 lb meat + 5 chip bags = 5 servings
• 2 lbs meat + 10 chip bags = 10 servings
• And so on…

Tips for Serving Safely

If you’re serving walking tacos at a party or outdoor event, keep food safety in mind:

• Keep sour cream cold: If it’s going to be out for more than an hour, place the container in a bowl of ice.
• Use tongs or spoons for toppings to avoid cross-contamination.
• Don’t leave meat out too long: If you’re serving buffet-style, keep the meat warm in a crockpot or serve in batches.

Walking Taco In A Bag – A Fun Twist on Taco Night

Whether you’re reliving your ballpark memories like I am or just looking for a simple weeknight meal walking taco in a bag is the way to go. Cleanup is a breeze – no plates are required if you eat right from the bag. Just throw the empty bag away when you’re done and all that you have left to do is to wash one skillet, a cutting board and maybe a couple of utensils (if you don’t use plastic).

So the next time you’re planning a picnic, birthday party, or just need a break from dishes, skip the taco shells and grab some chip bags instead. These walking tacos will quickly become a go-to favorite that everyone loves.

Enjoy! Mary

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Enjoy! Mary

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To receive FREE recipes delivered directly to your email, be sure to sign up for the iCookfortwo newsletter. A sign up form is located in the middle of this article. If you have any questions, comments, or want to submit an idea for a recipe for two, feel free to email at mary@icookfortwo.com