Tacos Dorados With Ground Beef are crispy, golden delights filled with tasty, seasoned meat. They’re easy to make and oh-so-satisfying, perfect for any day of the week!
I love how these tacos turn crunchy and leave everyone wanting more. Pair them with some fresh toppings, and you’ve got a feast that will make your taste buds dance! 🎉
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish! You can use lean or regular ground beef depending on your preference and desired fat content. For a healthier option, turkey or ground chicken works well too!
Onion: I recommend yellow onions for their sweetness, but you can substitute with white onion or even green onions if you have those on hand.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is the way to go because it adds great flavor. If you’re in a pinch, use 1/4 tsp of garlic powder instead.
Spices: Cumin and chili powder give these tacos a lovely depth of flavor. If you want a different kick, you could swap chili powder for taco seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne if you like things spicy!
Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional, but feel free to use flour tortillas if that’s what you prefer. Just keep in mind that the texture will change a bit.
Vegetable Oil: For frying, you can use canola oil, peanut oil, or even olive oil, but the taste might vary slightly. Use an oil with a high smoke point for best results.
How Do You Ensure Crispy Tacos?
Getting that perfect crispy texture for your tacos dorados is crucial! First, make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the tacos. Test it by dropping in a small piece of tortilla; it should sizzle immediately. Here’s how to fry them perfectly:
- Heat the oil to about 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can drop a small piece of tortilla in the oil.
- Fry a few tacos at a time. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the oil temperature and make them soggy.
- Cook until they’re golden brown, flipping halfway through, usually around 2-3 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels immediately after frying to keep them crisp.
These tips really help to achieve that nice golden crunch! Enjoy your tacos dorados with your favorite toppings!
How to Make Tacos Dorados With Ground Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
For the Tacos:
- 8-10 corn tortillas
- Vegetable oil for frying
Optional Toppings:
- Diced tomatoes
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced avocado
- Sour cream
- Salsa
- Cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook. So, in about half an hour, you’ll have delicious, crispy tacos dorados ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef Mixture:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook everything together for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onion becomes soft and translucent. This will fill your kitchen with a delicious aroma!
2. Season the Beef:
Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet. Then, add the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well to combine, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool a bit.
3. Prepare for Frying:
In another pan, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom with about 1/2 inch of oil and heat it over medium-high heat until hot. This will ensure your tacos get that perfect crispy texture.
4. Assemble the Tacos:
While the oil is heating, take a corn tortilla and scoop about 2-3 tablespoons of the beef mixture into the center. Carefully fold the tortilla in half, pressing the edges together to seal it tightly. Repeat this for as many tacos as you’d like to make.
5. Fry the Tacos:
Once the oil is hot, carefully place the folded tacos into the oil, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each taco for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. This part is always fun to watch!
6. Drain and Serve:
Using tongs, carefully remove the tacos from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This helps keep them crispy and not too greasy.
7. Add Toppings and Enjoy:
Serve your tacos dorados hot! Add your favorite toppings like diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, salsa, and cheese. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef. Simply follow the same instructions, but keep in mind that turkey may cook a bit faster, so be sure to monitor it closely to avoid drying out.
How Do I Keep My Tacos From Getting Soggy?
To prevent soggy tacos, make sure to drain any excess fat from the meat properly before assembling. Additionally, you can lightly fry the tortillas in oil for about 30 seconds before filling them; this creates a barrier that helps keep them crispier.
What Should I Do if My Tortillas Are Stiff?
If your corn tortillas are stiff and difficult to fold, try warming them in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds until they become pliable. This will make it easier to seal them without breaking.
Can I Prepare the Beef Mixture in Advance?
Yes! You can make the beef mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stove before filling the tortillas. This saves time and makes meal prep a breeze!
