These Crispy Tacos Dorados are a fantastic way to enjoy taco night! With crunchy shells filled with flavorful meat and cheese, they’re sure to please everyone.
Making them is a breeze—just fill, fry, and serve! I love adding a dollop of sour cream on top for extra yumminess. What’s better than a warm, crunchy taco in your hand? 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Tortillas: These are essential for creating the crispy shell. If you’re gluten-free, look for corn-based tortillas. Flour tortillas can also work, but they’ll differ in texture.
Shredded Chicken or Ground Beef: I usually go for shredded chicken for its tenderness, but you could easily substitute with ground turkey or even keep it vegetarian by using black beans or lentils. Just be sure to season well!
Cheese: I love using a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack, but feel free to experiment with queso fresco or even vegan cheese if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Onions: They’re optional, but I find they add nice flavor. You can swap them out for green onions or skip them entirely if you’re not a fan!
How Do You Get Tacos Dorados Extra Crispy?
Crispiness is key in Tacos Dorados, and here’s how to achieve it! Start by making sure your oil is hot before you fry. If it’s not hot enough, the tacos absorb too much oil and won’t get crispy. Aim for about 350°F.
- Keep the temperature consistent while frying. If you add too many tacos at once, the oil cools down.
- Fry in batches—you don’t want to overcrowd the pan!
- Let them drain on paper towels after frying to remove excess oil.
These simple steps will help you get that perfect crispy texture every time!
How to Make Crispy Tacos Dorados
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 12 small corn tortillas
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (or ground beef)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- 1/2 cup diced onions (optional)
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For Serving:
- Sour cream
- Salsa or guacamole
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Lime wedges (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15-20 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes for frying, so you can expect a total time of about 35-40 minutes. Quick and easy for a delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix the cooked shredded chicken (or ground beef) with shredded cheese, diced onions (if using), cumin, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined to create a flavorful filling!
2. Warm the Tortillas:
Lightly heat the corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave for a few seconds until they are pliable. This will make them easier to fold without tearing.
3. Fill and Fold:
Take each tortilla and place about 2 tablespoons of the filling on one side. Gently fold it over to create a half-moon shape and press down lightly to seal. If needed, you can use a toothpick to keep it in place while frying.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough that a small piece of tortilla sizzles when added—around 350°F is ideal.
5. Fry the Tacos:
Carefully add the folded tacos to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to turn them gently.
6. Drain and Serve:
Once fried, remove the tacos from the oil and let them drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve them warm with sour cream, salsa or guacamole, and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges if desired.
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful Tacos Dorados as a delightful dinner! They are sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Crispy Tacos Dorados Recipe
Can I Use Flour Tortillas Instead of Corn Tortillas?
Yes, you can use flour tortillas if you prefer! Keep in mind that they may not get as crispy as corn tortillas but will still be delicious. Just make sure to warm them before filling to avoid tearing.
What If I Don’t Have Cooked Chicken or Beef? Can I Use Raw Meat?
It’s best to use cooked meat for this recipe. If you only have raw meat, you can cook it first, season it, and then shred or crumble it to use in the filling. Just ensure it’s fully cooked before mixing it with the cheese and other ingredients.
How Do I Store Leftover Tacos Dorados?
Store leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can place them in a hot skillet for a few minutes to crisp them back up, or in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Can I Make the Filling Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just remember to warm it up slightly before filling your tortillas, making it easier to fold and fry.
