Tacos Dorados with Ground Beef are crispy and flavorful delights! These golden, crunchy tacos are filled with juicy ground beef, seasoned just right to make your taste buds dance.
Making them is a fun activity and a great way to get everyone involved. I love topping mine with fresh lettuce and cheese for that extra yum! It’s taco time, folks! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is perfect for this dish, but turkey or chicken are good swaps if you’re looking for lighter options. I often use a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor if I want to get fancy!
Onion and Garlic: Use yellow or white onion for sweetness. If you can’t use fresh garlic, garlic powder is a decent substitute—just add less than the recipe calls for as it’s more concentrated.
Spices: Cumin and chili powder are crucial for flavor. If you want a milder taste, reduce the chili powder or use smoked paprika for a different twist. If you’re out of paprika, simply add a pinch of cayenne for some heat!
Corn Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional for this recipe. In a pinch, you can use flour tortillas, though the taste and texture will differ. Just be sure to warm them up first to avoid tearing.
Garnishes: Cilantro adds freshness, but if you’re not a fan, you could use chopped green onions or omit it entirely. For the sides, feel free to customize with your favorite toppings like avocado or jalapeños!
How Do I Ensure My Tacos Are Crispy and Not Greasy?
Frying tacos can be tricky! Here are some tips to get that perfect crispy texture:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying—around 350°F (175°C) works great. Test it by dropping a small piece of tortilla; it should sizzle.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry only a few tacos at a time to keep the oil temperature consistent. This helps them cook evenly.
- After frying, place the tacos on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. This keeps them crispy while you finish the batch.
With these tips, your tacos dorados will turn out perfectly crispy and delicious! Enjoy your flavorful taco night!
How to Make Tacos Dorados with Ground Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tacos:
- 10-12 corn tortillas
- Oil for frying
For Serving:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Sour cream
- Salsa
How Much Time Will You Need?
You will need about 15 minutes for preparation and another 15 minutes for cooking. In total, plan for about 30 minutes to get delicious tacos dorados on your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef Filling:
In a medium skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook while stirring occasionally until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent, which takes around 5-7 minutes. You want everything to be nicely cooked and fragrant!
2. Season the Filling:
Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet. Then, add the ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture. Stir everything together well and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together. After that, remove the skillet from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
3. Heat the Oil:
In a separate frying pan, pour in some oil (enough for frying) and heat it over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when a small drop of water sizzles when added to the oil!
4. Assemble the Tacos:
To put your tacos together, take a corn tortilla and add a spoonful of the ground beef mixture to one side. Then fold the tortilla over and press it lightly to seal. Do this for all your tortillas until your filling is used up.
5. Fry the Tacos:
Once the oil is hot, carefully place the folded tacos in the oil. You may need to fry them in batches, so don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook the tacos for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, remove them and let them drain on paper towels to get rid of excess oil.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your tacos dorados hot and garnish with fresh cilantro. Accompany them with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and salsa for dipping. Enjoy your tasty feast!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative to ground beef in this recipe. Just be aware that turkey can be a bit drier, so consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or a splash of chicken broth to enhance the moisture and flavor.
What Can I Use Instead of Corn Tortillas?
If you can’t find corn tortillas, flour tortillas make a suitable substitute, although they won’t give you the same authentic crunch and flavor. Just make sure to fry them a little longer to ensure they get crispy!
How Do I Store Leftover Tacos Dorados?
Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them from getting soggy, it’s best to store the filling separately from the tortillas. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture.
