How To Make Taco In A Bag (Walking Tacos Recipe)

This taco in a bag recipe is a fun and easy way to switch up taco Tuesday. Imagine regular tacos with all your favorite toppings, but eating it straight out of the chip bag instead of off the taco shell, and with less clean up.

In the world of Tex-Mex cuisine, creativity knows no bounds. Enter the “Taco in a Bag,” a mouthwatering and portable twist on the classic taco that’s taking the culinary world by storm. 

Whether you’re at a festival, a sporting event, a camping trip, or simply craving a quick and delicious snack, Taco in a Bag is the ultimate solution. This flavor-packed dish brings together all the elements of a traditional taco in a convenient and mess-free bag, making it the perfect grab-and-go treat for foodies on the move. 

So, let’s dive into the delightful world of Taco in a Bag and explore the reasons why this Tex-Mex creation has captured hearts and taste buds everywhere!

If you love tacos you may also want to try my Viral Big Mac Smash Burger Tacos or my Homemade Taco Bell Crunch Wrap Supreme.

WHAT IS TACO IN A BAG?

At its core, a Taco in a Bag (or walking tacos) is a deconstructed taco, assembled in a single-serving bag of tortilla chips. It’s a culinary masterpiece that combines the irresistible flavors of a taco with the convenience of a snack you can hold in your hand.

This delightful creation eliminates the need for plates and cutlery, making it perfect for any setting where you want to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal fuss.

INGREDIENTS FOR THE EASY WALKING TACO RECIPE

You will need the following ingredients listed below to make the chip bag (the exact measurements, nutritional information and full recipe are in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post):

• 1 bag of chips – nacho cheese doritos, cool ranch doritos, corn chips, or regular tortilla chips.
• Cooked taco meat such as lean ground beef, ground turkey, ground chicken or shredded chicken (or any protein of your choice)
• Favorite taco seasoning – can make your own homemade taco seasoning or use the packaged stuff.
• Shredded lettuce
• Diced tomatoes
• Shredded cheddar cheese – or any cheese you prefer such as monterey jack.
• Salsa – or pico de gallo.
• Guacamole
• Sour cream
• Fresh cilantro leaves 
• Optional – green onions, green chiles, black olives, hot sauce, bell pepper, red onion, white onion, lime juice etc.

HOW TO MAKE

1. Crush the Chips: Carefully crush the tortilla chips inside the bag, leaving some larger pieces for added texture.
2. Layer the Ingredients: Start by layering the seasoned ground beef or shredded chicken on top of the crushed chips. Then, add shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, shredded cheese, and diced onions.
3. Add the Toppings: Generously drizzle salsa and guacamole over the layers of ingredients. Top it off with dollops of sour cream for a creamy finish.
4. Garnish with Cilantro: For an extra burst of freshness, sprinkle some fresh cilantro leaves on top.
5. Mix and Enjoy: Close the bag and gently shake it to mix all the flavors and textures together. With the bag acting as your plate, you can enjoy the Taco in a Bag mess-free!

STORING

Storing Taco in a Bag is relatively simple, and it can help you enjoy any leftovers or make-ahead batches without compromising on taste and freshness. Here’s how to store Taco in a Bag properly:

1. Refrigeration:
   • If you have leftover Taco in a Bag or you’ve assembled multiple bags for later consumption, place them in an airtight container or sealable plastic bags.
   • Refrigerate the containers or bags promptly to keep the ingredients fresh and safe to eat.
   • Taco in a Bag can be safely refrigerated for up to 1-2 days, depending on the freshness of the ingredients used.
2. Individual Portion Containers:
   • If you plan to make Taco in a Bag ahead of time for easy grab-and-go snacks, consider using individual portion containers with secure lids.
   • Layer the ingredients in each container, starting with crushed tortilla chips, followed by the taco toppings, and finish with the sauces.
   • Seal the containers tightly to prevent air exposure and maintain the flavors.
3. Reheating and Assembly:
   • Taco in a Bag is best enjoyed fresh for its optimal flavors and textures. However, if you’ve stored the ingredients separately, you can quickly assemble a fresh bag by layering the ingredients again.
   • The crushed tortilla chips should be added as the base, followed by the protein, toppings, and sauces. Shake the bag gently to mix the ingredients before serving.

CAN I USE DIFFERENT CHIPS FOR TACO SALAD?

Absolutely! While tortilla chips are the traditional choice, you can get creative with different types of chips. Corn chips, corn tortilla chips, pita chips, or even Doritos can add unique flavors and textures to your Taco in a Bag.

CAN I MAKE A VEGAN OR VEGETARIAN VERSION?

Absolutely! Taco in a Bag is highly versatile and can be easily adapted to various dietary preferences. For a vegetarian version, use meat alternatives like seasoned black beans, soy crumbles, or grilled vegetables as the protein. For a vegan version, avoid dairy-based toppings like cheese and sour cream, and opt for vegan-friendly alternatives like vegan cheese and dairy-free sour cream.

HOW TO MAKE THE TACO BAGS KID-FRIENDLY

Kids love Taco in a Bag for its interactive and fun nature. To make it even more kid-friendly, let them participate in assembling their own bags. Provide a variety of their favorite taco toppings and sauces for them to choose from, allowing them to create their personalized Taco in a Bag.

CAN I USE PACKAGED TACO SEASONING FOR THE MEAT?

Yes, pre-made taco seasoning can save time and add great flavor to the meat. You can use store-bought taco seasoning packets or make your own by mixing a combination of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and salt. Try my Homemade Taco Seasoning here.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO ENJOY THIS POPULAR MEAL?

1. Outdoor Events: Taco in a Bag is perfect for outdoor events such as picnics, beach days, hiking trips, and camping. Its portable and mess-free nature makes it an ideal on-the-go meal that can be enjoyed while exploring the great outdoors.
2. Sports Events: Whether you’re watching live football games at the stadium or cheering for your favorite team at home for game day, Taco in a Bag is an excellent snack option. Its easy assembly and minimal mess allow you to focus on the game while satisfying your taste buds.
3. Birthday parties and Gatherings: Taco in a Bag is the perfect party food. You can set up a walking taco bar station with various toppings and let guests create their own personalized bags. It adds a fun and interactive element to the event, always making it a big hit.
4. Quick and Easy Lunch: When you’re short on time or don’t feel like cooking an elaborate meal, Taco in a Bag comes to the rescue. It’s a quick and easy lunch option that doesn’t compromise on flavor and satisfaction.
5. After-School Snack: Kids love Taco in a Bag for its interactive nature and delicious flavors. It’s a fantastic after-school snack that can be customized to suit their preferences, making it a fun and wholesome treat.
6. Cinco De Mayo: It just wouldn’t be right to celebrate this holiday without a taco night. It’s such an easy recipe that will satisfy all taco cravings.

Other Delicious Dinner Ideas You May Like To Try!

• Zesty Italian Pasta Salad
• Loaded Cheesy Cauliflower Nachos
• The Best Italian Chopped Salad Recipe
• Crispy Air Fryer Sesame Chicken Bites
• Keto Chicken Fajita Casserole

IF YOU TRIED THIS FUN TWIST ON TACOS PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT IN THE COMMENT SECTION AND STAR RATING. I LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOUR CREATIONS! YOU CAN PIN THIS RECIPE ON PINTEREST OR SHARE ON INSTAGRAM BY TAGGING @basicswithbails and #basicswithbails