Big Game Taco Bar (Printable View)
A festive taco spread featuring seasoned meats, fresh toppings, and flavorful sides for sharing.
# Ingredient List:
→ Proteins
01 - 1 lb ground beef
02 - 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
03 - 1 tbsp olive oil
04 - 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
05 - 1/3 cup water
→ Tortillas
06 - 16 small corn or flour tortillas
→ Toppings
07 - 2 cups shredded lettuce
08 - 1 cup diced tomatoes
09 - 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
10 - 1 cup sour cream
11 - 1 cup guacamole
12 - 1 cup salsa
13 - 1/2 cup sliced black olives
14 - 1/2 cup diced red onion
15 - 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
16 - 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced
17 - 1 lime cut into wedges
→ Extras
18 - Tortilla chips for serving
19 - 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
# How to Make It:
01 - Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat. Add half the taco seasoning and half the water. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
02 - In a separate skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Add the remaining taco seasoning and water. Simmer until the sauce thickens and the chicken is cooked through.
03 - Wrap the tortillas in foil and heat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes. Alternatively, microwave them covered with a damp paper towel until warm, about 30–45 seconds.
04 - Arrange the proteins, tortillas, and all toppings in individual bowls or platters. Add the black beans and tortilla chips to the spread. Set up buffet-style for easy self-service.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- Its the ultimate low stress party food because your guests do half the work
- You can prep almost everything ahead and actually enjoy your own gathering
- The combination of two proteins means everyone finds something they love
02 -
- Cold tortillas crack and break, so warming them properly is worth the extra step
- Put out spoons for every topping, otherwise people will use their own and cross contaminate everything
03 -
- Make your own seasoning blend and double it so you always have some ready
- Put the cheese in a warm spot so it melts instantly when it hits the meat