Big Game Taco Bar (Printable)

A colorful taco spread with savory meats, fresh toppings, and warm tortillas perfect for large groups.

# What You'll Need:

→ Proteins

01 - 1 lb ground beef
02 - 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
03 - 1 tbsp olive oil
04 - 1 packet taco seasoning or homemade blend
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 black beans, drained and rinsed

# Directions:

01 - Brown ground beef in skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat. Stir in half the taco seasoning and half the water. Simmer 3-4 minutes until sauce thickens.
02 - Heat olive oil in separate skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken and cook until no longer pink. Stir in remaining taco seasoning and water. Simmer until sauce thickens and chicken is cooked through.
03 - Wrap tortillas in foil and heat in 350°F oven for 10 minutes, or microwave covered with damp towel until warm.
04 - Arrange proteins, tortillas, and all toppings in individual bowls or platters. Add black beans and tortilla chips to the spread.
05 - Let guests assemble their own tacos with preferred fixings.

# Expert Hints:

01 -
  • Everyone builds exactly what they want, so no complaints about picky eaters
  • You can prep everything in advance and actually enjoy your own party
02 -
  • Cold tortillas crack and spill, so warming them makes or breaks the experience
  • Drain the beef thoroughly or the seasoning will slide right off
03 -
  • Homemade seasoning takes three minutes to mix and tastes infinitely better
  • Offer both corn and flour tortillas—people have strong opinions