Beef Fried Tacos Recipe

For your next taco night, consider taking your favorite taco recipe and frying it! Classic tacos never tasted better. Cooked tacos using this method taste entirely different, regardless of the taco filling. 

A crispy taco doesn’t have to be made in a deep fryer if that is a concern. You can do the whole thing in a couple of minutes using a medium skillet and not too much oil. Let’s get started. 

Ingredients: 

• 1lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1 can, 10 oz. diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel Tomatoes)
• 1 packet dry taco seasoning
• 6″ flour tortillas
• 2-3 cups shredded Mexican cheese
• vegetable oil

How To Make Fried Tacos: 

Heat ground beef and onion in a skillet over medium high heat until beef is browned and onions are translucent. Drain grease. Add tomatoes and taco seasoning to skillet and mix well. Heat over medium heat until no more liquid remains in the mixture. Remove from heat. 

Heat a separate large skillet with about 1/2″ vegetable oil over medium heat until hot. 

Plae a small amount of cheese onto one side of a flour tortilla (about 1 tablespoon) and top with about 3 tablespoons beef mixture and an additional tablespoon of cheese on top. Fold tortilla in half and secure with a toothpick. 

Working in batches, fry tacos, about 2 minutes on each side, until browned and hot. Drain on a plate lined with paper towels before serving. Serve with fresh salsa and chopped fresh cilantro if desired. 

Makes 12-14 tacos

Common Questions

Fried tacos, also known as “tacos dorados,” are a popular Mexican dish consisting of tacos that are filled and then fried until crispy. They are beloved for their crunchy texture and flavorful fillings. Here are some common questions and answers about fried tacos:

What fillings can you use in fried tacos?

Common fillings include shredded chicken, ground beef, pork, refried beans, and cheese. You can also get creative with fillings like fish, shrimp, or vegetables.

Can you bake fried tacos instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake fried tacos as a healthier alternative. Brush the tacos with a little oil and bake them in a preheated oven until they are crispy. The texture will be slightly different but still enjoyable.

Can fried tacos be made ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling in advance, but fried tacos are best fried just before serving to maintain their crispiness. If necessary, you can reheat them in the oven to crisp up the tortillas before serving.

What’s the best way to fry tacos without them opening up?

Use toothpicks to secure the tacos shut before frying. Make sure the oil is hot enough so that the tacos start frying immediately upon being added, which helps seal them closed.

Can you use flour tortillas for fried tacos?

Yes, while corn tortillas are more traditional, flour tortillas can also be used for fried tacos. The texture and flavor will be different but still delicious.

Are fried tacos the same as taquitos?

Fried tacos and taquitos are similar, but taquitos are typically rolled tightly around the filling and fried, while fried tacos are folded and have a half-moon shape.

Fried tacos offer a delightful crunch and are versatile enough to accommodate a wide range of fillings and toppings, making them a favorite for many.

What can I serve alongside fried tacos?

Serving fried tacos with a variety of sides can turn them into a complete and satisfying meal. Here’s a list of complementary side dishes that pair well with the crispy and flavorful nature of fried tacos:

1. Mexican Rice: A flavorful side that can be spiced up with tomatoes, onions, and garlic to complement the tacos.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy and rich, refried beans are a staple in Mexican cuisine and add a nice contrast to the crunch of fried tacos.
3. Guacamole: A fresh and creamy dip made from avocados, lime, onion, and cilantro, perfect for adding a cool and rich element.
4. Salsa: Offer a variety of salsas, such as salsa verde, pico de gallo, or a spicy salsa roja, to add a burst of flavor and heat.
5. Corn Salad: A light and refreshing side, made with sweet corn, lime, cheese, and spices, that complements the deep-fried tacos.
6. Cilantro Lime Rice: A zesty and aromatic side dish that brings a fresh brightness to balance the savory tacos.
7. Jicama Slaw: A crunchy and slightly sweet slaw that adds a refreshing contrast to the tacos.
8. Queso Fundido: A melted cheese dish with chorizo or mushrooms that can serve as a decadent dip for the tacos or as a side.
9. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn on the cob coated with a mixture of mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice, offering a smoky and creamy side option.
10. Tostones (Fried Plantains): Twice-fried plantain slices that provide a sweet and starchy side, perfect for dipping in guacamole or salsa.
11. Black Bean Salad: A hearty and healthy salad made with black beans, corn, avocado, red onions, and a lime vinaigrette.
12. Chips and Salsa or Queso: A simple yet popular side, perfect for snacking while the main meal is being prepared. Homemade tortilla chips are preferred. 
13. Pickled Vegetables: A tangy and spicy assortment of pickled carrots, onions, and jalapeños that can add a bright and piquant note.
14. Mexican Coleslaw: A slaw made with cabbage, carrots, cilantro, and a lime-based dressing, offering a crunchy and light side.
15. Fruit Salsa: A sweet and spicy salsa made from mango, pineapple, or papaya, which can add a unique and refreshing twist.

Always have an extra side of cheddar cheese and diced onions for topping. Including various sides with your fried tacos can create a balanced and festive meal that caters to different tastes and preferences, making your dining experience more enjoyable and complete.

This is a personal choice though – be sure to include your favorite taco toppings! It’s your Taco Tuesday, after all. 

How do you make homemade taco seasoning?

Making homemade taco seasoning is simple and allows you to customize the flavor and heat level. It also ensures your seasoning is free from preservatives and additives in store-bought mixes. Here’s a basic recipe for homemade taco seasoning that you can adjust according to your taste:

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (you can use smoked paprika for a smokier flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust for heat)
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

Instructions:

1. Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients and mix well to ensure they are thoroughly blended.
2. Storage: Transfer the seasoning mix to an airtight container or a jar with a tight-fitting lid. Store it in a cool, dry place.
3. Usage: When you’re ready to use your taco seasoning, you can generally use about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the seasoning mix per pound of meat (beef, chicken, pork, etc.). This can vary depending on your preference for how flavorful or spicy you want your tacos to be.

Fried beef tacos cooked until golden brown cannot be beaten. Make sure you have some hot sauce and friends to share the meal with. 🙂 

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