Walking Taco Graveyard Cups I’m Making These For The 3rd Time This Week

Have you ever wished for a snack that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious? That’s exactly why I’m making Walking Taco Graveyard Cups for the third time this week. These bite-sized delights combine all the best flavors of a walking taco packed into convenient individual servings.

Walking Taco Graveyard Cups are the perfect way to enjoy that classic, savory carnival treat in a fresh, easy-to-serve format. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or craving a quick, satisfying snack, these cups promise bursts of flavor with every bite.

Why I Can’t Stop Making These Cookies

• Quick to prepare and perfect for busy days or last-minute guests
• Combines a delightful blend of crunchy, savory, and cheesy flavors that keep you coming back
• Uses pantry staples and common fridge ingredients, so it’s easy to whip up anytime
• Kid-friendly with customizable toppings that please picky eaters
• Great for any season but especially fun for fall or Halloween parties with the “graveyard” theme

What Type of Main Ingredient Should I Use?

For the base of your Walking Taco Graveyard Cups, choosing the right chips is key. Classic corn chips or Fritos work best because they hold up well under toppings without getting soggy quickly. Fresh chips provide the best crunch, but if using frozen or store-packaged chips, just let them come to room temperature so they don’t feel stale or overly stiff. Avoid using overly greasy or broken chips as they may affect texture.

If you’re including cooked ground beef or meat alternatives, opt for fresh, lean ground beef that’s well-drained after cooking. If using frozen meat substitutes, thaw completely and pat dry to prevent excess moisture from sogging the cups.

Options for Ingredient Alternatives

• Butter can be swapped with olive oil, avocado oil, or coconut oil (chill dough 30 minutes if using coconut oil to prevent melting)
• Instead of cheddar cheese, try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend
• Use milk, almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk as a dairy substitute
• Add a splash of lime juice or swap traditional taco seasoning with smoked paprika and cumin for a twist
• Fresh veggies like diced tomatoes or jalapeños can replace or supplement dried toppings like crushed red pepper flakes or dried onions

The Biggest Challenges While Baking

• Folding in delicate ingredients like crushed chips and fresh herbs last to avoid losing crunch or flavor
• Making sure butter or fat is at the right temperature; too warm and it melts the chips, too cold and it’s hard to mix
• Avoiding overmixing the meat and seasoning to keep a pleasant, crumbly texture
• Fix dry or crumbly filling by adding a tablespoon of milk or broth at a time until moist but not soggy
• Chilling the assembled cups for 30 minutes helps flavors meld and keeps the cups from falling apart when eating

Storage & Freezing Instructions

Walking Taco Graveyard Cups are best enjoyed fresh but store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, layer cups in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Freeze up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in the oven or microwave. You can also prep the filling mixture ahead and assemble just before serving for best crunch.

Estimated Nutrition

For the whole batch, expect roughly 1200 to 1500 calories depending on portion size and toppings. Each serving (one cup) ranges from about 200 to 300 calories, with protein from the meat, carbohydrates from the chips, and fats from cheese and oils, making it a balanced indulgence.

Ingredients

• 4 cups corn chips or Fritos (about 120 g)
• 1 lb lean ground beef (450 g)
• 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1.25 oz or 35 g)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (60 g)
• 1/4 cup diced tomato (40 g)
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives (35 g)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (25 g)
• 1/4 cup sour cream (60 ml)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
• 1/4 cup diced jalapeños (optional) (25 g)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
2. Stir in taco seasoning and 1/4 cup water, simmering for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat.
3. In a large bowl, toss corn chips gently with olive oil to coat lightly.
4. Spoon seasoned beef evenly over the chips, being careful not to crush them.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top, followed by diced tomato, olives, green onions, and jalapeños if using.
6. Add a dollop of sour cream on each cup for creaminess.
7. Chill the cups for 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld and maintain chip crunch.

Tips, Variations & Serving Ideas

• Add crushed nacho cheese Doritos or spicy flavored chips for a new twist
• Use ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option
• Top with guacamole, salsa, or pickled onions for bold flavors
• Serve in small clear cups for easy portion control and party presentation
• Underbake the meat slightly if you prefer a juicier filling texture
• Freeze individual components like cooked beef or cheese separately for easy assembly later
• Sprinkle fresh cilantro or squeeze fresh lime juice on top before serving for brightness

FAQs

Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Yes, just use gluten-free corn chips and check your taco seasoning is gluten-free.

Q: How long do leftovers last?
A: Store in the refrigerator up to 3 days in an airtight container for best freshness.

Q: Can I prepare these in advance?
A: Yes, cook and season the beef ahead, store separately, then assemble just before serving.

Q: What drinks pair well?
A: Try a crisp soda, a margarita, or a light beer to complement the savory flavors.

Save This for Later (Pinterest)

If you love fun, easy snacks that pack a punch of flavor, be sure to save these Walking Taco Graveyard Cups to your Pinterest boards. Share with friends who need an exciting party treat or a quick family favorite!