Tacos Dorados with Ground Beef: Crispy, Flavorful, and Irresistible
Tacos Dorados with Ground Beef are a delicious twist on traditional tacos, offering a crispy texture that pairs perfectly with savory ground beef and your favorite toppings. These deep-fried golden tacos, also known as fried tacos or crispy tacos, are filled with a flavorful ground beef mixture and fried until perfectly crunchy. The contrast between the crunchy taco shell and the tender, flavorful filling is what makes Tacos Dorados a beloved dish in many Mexican households.
Whether you’re planning a fun family dinner or a Mexican-themed gathering, these Tacos Dorados with Ground Beef will be a crowd-pleaser. In this article, we’ll walk you through the basic recipe, share advanced techniques to elevate the dish, offer storage and shelf-life tips, and suggest dietary adaptations for various needs.
For more taco inspiration, check out Authentic Taco Recipes on Taste of Home and Mexican Tacos on Allrecipes.
Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions
Ingredients for Tacos Dorados with Ground Beef:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup beef broth (or water)
- Corn tortillas (10-12 small tortillas)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Toppings: Shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, shredded cheese, salsa, avocado slices, or cilantro
Instructions:
- Prepare the Beef Filling: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook, breaking the meat apart with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté the Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add Spices and Tomato Sauce: Stir in the cumin, chili powder, paprika, and black pepper. Season with salt to taste. Then, add the tomato sauce and beef broth, mixing well to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the beef is tender. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Tortillas: Heat a small amount of vegetable oil in a separate skillet over medium heat. Lightly fry each corn tortilla for about 30 seconds per side just until they become flexible but not crispy. This step makes the tortillas easier to roll without breaking. Once they are warm and pliable, remove and drain any excess oil on paper towels.
- Fill the Tortillas: Spoon a generous amount of the beef filling onto the center of each tortilla. Roll up the tortillas tightly to form a closed taco shape. If necessary, secure the ends with a toothpick.
- Fry the Tacos: In the same skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (around 350°F), carefully fry the tacos in batches. Fry each taco for about 2-3 minutes per side or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to turn them gently to ensure even frying.
- Drain and Serve: Once the tacos are golden and crispy, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, shredded cheese, salsa, and avocado slices.
Advanced Techniques for Tacos Dorados with Ground Beef
1. Add Potatoes to the Beef Filling:
For a more filling and traditional version of Tacos Dorados, add diced potatoes to the beef filling. This not only adds flavor but also helps bulk up the filling. Simply boil the potatoes until tender, then mash and mix them with the ground beef.
2. Use a Blend of Meats:
For extra richness and flavor, consider using a blend of ground beef and pork in the filling. The combination creates a more savory and juicy texture that elevates the dish.
3. Spice It Up:
If you prefer a spicier version, add some chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers to the beef mixture. You can also drizzle hot sauce over the finished tacos to increase the heat.
4. Serve with Mexican Rice:
To create a fuller meal, serve your Tacos Dorados with Mexican rice or a side of refried beans. These sides pair perfectly with the crispy tacos and add more depth to your meal.
5. Use Homemade Tortillas:
For the best flavor and texture, make your own corn tortillas at home. This adds a rustic, authentic touch to your Tacos Dorados. The homemade tortillas will be fresher and can be fried to the perfect level of crispiness.
See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.
Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips
How to Store:
Store leftover Tacos Dorados with Ground Beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. While the tacos will stay safe to eat, the crispy texture may soften over time.
Freezing Tips:
Tacos Dorados freeze well for up to 2 months. To freeze, wrap each taco individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. When ready to eat, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore some of the crispiness.
Reheating Tips:
To reheat, place the tacos in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes until heated through and the shells regain some of their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as this may make the shells soggy.
Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions
Gluten-Free:
This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use corn tortillas. Just make sure to double-check that the spices and other ingredients don’t contain any gluten, and serve with gluten-free toppings such as salsa, guacamole, or cheese.
Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly:
To make this dish low-carb or keto-friendly, use low-carb tortillas (such as almond flour or coconut flour tortillas) or opt for lettuce wraps instead of tortillas. This allows you to enjoy the savory beef filling without the carbs from traditional tortillas.
Dairy-Free:
For a dairy-free version, skip the cheese and sour cream toppings. You can substitute dairy-free sour cream or guacamole for a creamy topping. The tacos will still be full of flavor with the right seasoning and toppings.
Vegetarian/Vegan:
For a vegetarian or vegan version, substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils. You can use vegan cheese and dairy-free sour cream for the toppings, making these tacos completely plant-based.
FAQs About The Recipe
1. Can I make Tacos Dorados in advance?
You can prepare the beef filling in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to fry the tacos just before serving to ensure they stay crispy.
2. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
While corn tortillas are traditional for Tacos Dorados, you can use flour tortillas if you prefer. However, they won’t be as crispy, and they may have a slightly different texture.
3. Can I bake the tacos instead of frying them?
Yes! If you prefer a healthier version, you can bake the tacos instead of frying them. Place the filled tacos on a baking sheet, lightly brush them with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they’re golden and crispy.
4. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for a leaner alternative. The seasonings in this recipe will still complement these meats wonderfully.
5. What can I serve with Tacos Dorados?
Tacos Dorados are perfect with sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, guacamole, salsa, and pickled vegetables. These sides complement the crunchy tacos and create a well-rounded meal.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
Tacos Dorados with Ground Beef are a crunchy, flavorful Mexican favorite that combines savory, spiced beef with crispy tortillas. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or a fun gathering, these tacos will be a hit. The crispy texture, combined with the rich and savory beef filling, makes every bite irresistible.
With easy-to-follow instructions, tips for customization, and ways to make this dish your own, Tacos Dorados are a versatile and satisfying choice. Give them a try today and savor the delicious flavors of this classic Mexican treat!