Tacos Dorados With Ground Beef Recipe

Tacos Dorados with Ground Beef are a perfect way to enjoy Mexican cuisine right in your home. These crispy, golden tacos are packed with seasoned beef and gooey melted cheese, offering a satisfying crunch with each bite. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Perfect for those who love a little spice and rich, savory flavors, Tacos Dorados are a great addition to your weekly meal rotation. Keep reading to learn how to make these delicious tacos step-by-step!

What Are Tacos Dorados?

Tacos Dorados, which translates to “golden tacos,” are fried tacos that get their name from their crispy, golden-brown shells. Unlike traditional soft tacos, these are fried until crunchy, creating a delightful contrast between the crispy exterior and the soft, flavorful filling. Popular in Mexican cuisine, they can be stuffed with a variety of fillings like beef, chicken, potatoes, or cheese. This recipe, however, focuses on a classic ground beef filling with a cheesy twist.

Ingredients for Tacos Dorados With Ground Beef

Here’s what you’ll need to make approximately 12 crispy tacos:

• 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef: The base of the filling, packed with protein.
• 1 jalapeno, seeds removed, diced: Adds a mild heat and flavor.
• 1 white onion, diced: Provides sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
• 1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama: A Cajun seasoning blend for a flavorful kick.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory flavor.
• 1 teaspoon cumin: Adds a warm, earthy spice.
• 1 teaspoon black pepper: For mild heat and balance.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Optional, for an extra touch of heat.
• 1 cup Monterey jack cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully and provides a creamy texture.
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Adds a tangy, robust flavor.
• 12 corn tortillas: The foundation for tacos dorados.
• Vegetable oil, for frying: You’ll need enough to fry the tortillas until crispy.

this RECIPE

Essential Kitchen Equipment

To prepare your Tacos Dorados, gather these tools:

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Tongs for flipping tortillas
• Paper towels for draining excess oil
• A sharp knife for dicing vegetables
• Grater for shredding cheese
• Plate for assembling and draining tacos

Step-by-Step Preparation

Follow these simple steps to make Tacos Dorados with Ground Beef:

1. Cook the Ground Beef Mixture:
   In a large skillet, add the ground beef, diced onions, and jalapeno over medium heat. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, and the onions and jalapeno are softened, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
2. Season the Meat:
   Once the beef is fully cooked, add the Slap Ya Mama seasoning, garlic powder, cumin, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to incorporate the spices throughout the meat. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Drain any excess grease from the skillet to avoid a soggy filling.
3. Heat the Oil for Frying:
   In the same skillet, wipe it clean, and add enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers, indicating it’s hot enough for frying.
4. Prepare the Tortillas:
   Using tongs, carefully place one corn tortilla at a time into the hot oil. Flip the tortilla after 10-15 seconds to make sure it’s heated evenly.
5. Assemble the Tacos:
   Working quickly, add a layer of shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or sharp cheddar), followed by a spoonful of the seasoned beef mixture, and top with more cheese. Fold the tortilla in half and press gently to hold its shape.
6. Fry Until Golden and Crispy:
   Continue frying the taco, flipping it occasionally with tongs, until it becomes golden brown and crispy on both sides. This process should take 2-3 minutes per taco. Remove from the oil and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Arrange the Tacos Dorados on a serving platter and serve immediately with your favorite toppings.

Tips for Perfectly Crispy Tacos Dorados

• Oil Temperature: Make sure your oil is hot before adding the tortillas. If the oil is too cool, the tortillas will absorb too much oil and become greasy instead of crispy.
• Don’t Overfill: Adding too much filling can cause the tacos to break while frying, so keep the portions balanced.
• Work Quickly: The tortillas soften quickly in hot oil, so be prepared to add your cheese and beef filling right after flipping them.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Undercooking the Beef: Make sure the beef is fully cooked before assembling the tacos. Raw meat in the center can be unpleasant and unsafe.
• Overloading the Tacos: Keep the filling moderate to ensure the tortillas can fold and crisp evenly.
• Using Cold Tortillas: Warm tortillas are easier to fold and work with, so don’t skip the pre-frying step.

Toppings and Sides for Tacos Dorados

Tacos Dorados are versatile, and the toppings can be tailored to your preferences. Here are some delicious options to serve alongside:

• Sour cream: Adds a cool, creamy contrast to the crispy tacos.
• Guacamole: A fresh, flavorful topping.
• Pico de Gallo: Brightens up the dish with fresh tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
• Shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes: Classic, refreshing toppings that add texture.
• Salsa: Try a mild or spicy salsa for an extra kick.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Tacos Dorados

If you have any leftovers, it’s best to store the tacos separately from the toppings.

• To Store: Place the tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3 days.
• To Reheat: For best results, reheat them in an oven or air fryer at 350°F until crispy again. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the tacos soggy.

Variations and Substitutions

You can easily adapt this recipe to suit different tastes and dietary preferences:

• Chicken Tacos Dorados: Swap the ground beef for shredded chicken. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick option.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with seasoned black beans or a mix of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.
• Spice Level: Adjust the spiciness by adding or reducing the jalapeno and red pepper flakes based on your heat tolerance.

Presentation Tips for Tacos Dorados

For a visually appealing presentation, arrange the tacos dorados on a large platter and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with small bowls of guacamole, salsa, and sour cream on the side. A sprinkle of queso fresco or a squeeze of lime over the tacos can elevate the dish, making it restaurant-worthy.

Serving Suggestions

Tacos Dorados pair perfectly with refreshing drinks like iced horchata or aguas frescas. Serve with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans to complete the meal.

FAQs About Tacos Dorados With Ground Beef

Can I bake the tacos instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake them in the oven at 400°F for about 12-15 minutes. Brush the tortillas with a bit of oil beforehand to help them crisp up.

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Corn tortillas are traditional, but you can use flour tortillas if you prefer a softer texture.

What other cheeses can I use?
You can experiment with cheeses like Oaxaca, queso fresco, or a Mexican cheese blend.

Conclusion

Tacos Dorados with Ground Beef are the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and savory. Easy to make and versatile, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Try it out today and let the golden crunch transport you to Mexico! Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family and subscribe to our blog for more mouthwatering recipes.

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