Tacos Dorados With Ground Beef Recipe

If you're craving a delicious, crunchy, and satisfying Mexican dish, look no further than Tacos Dorados with Ground Beef! This beloved Mexican street food translates to "Golden Tacos" because of their crispy, golden-brown shell. Perfectly filled with seasoned ground beef and topped with your favorite fresh ingredients, these tacos are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to help you prepare this delightful meal. So, get ready to learn how to make Tacos Dorados with Ground Beef that everyone will love!

What are Tacos Dorados?

Tacos Dorados, often referred to as “fried tacos” or “golden tacos,” are tortillas stuffed with a savory filling, folded, and then fried until crispy. Unlike soft tacos, Tacos Dorados are characterized by their crunchy exterior, which provides a delicious contrast to the warm, flavorful filling inside. The filling can range from ground beef, shredded chicken, or even mashed potatoes. In this recipe, we'll focus on a classic version made with ground beef, seasoned to perfection with Mexican spices.

Ingredients List for Tacos Dorados with Ground Beef

To create the perfect Tacos Dorados, you'll need the following ingredients. Most of these can be found in your local grocery store, and some might already be in your kitchen.

For the Ground Beef Filling:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (preferably 80% lean, 20% fat)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for cooking
• ½ cup tomato sauce or diced tomatoes

For the Tacos:

• 12 corn tortillas (6-inch size)
• ½ cup vegetable oil for frying (more if needed)
• Toothpicks (optional, for holding the tacos together during frying)

For Garnishing:

• Shredded lettuce
• Diced tomatoes
• Sliced avocado
• Crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream
• Salsa or hot sauce
• Fresh cilantro leaves
• Lime wedges

Substitutions and Variations

Tacos Dorados with ground beef are incredibly versatile, and you can easily customize the recipe to suit your preferences. Here are some ideas for substitutions and variations:

• Meat Alternatives: If you're not a fan of ground beef, you can substitute it with ground chicken, turkey, or pork. You can also use shredded chicken or pulled beef for a different texture.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef with mashed black beans, refried beans, or even seasoned mashed potatoes. Add some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and onions for extra flavor.
• Tortilla Options: While corn tortillas are traditional for Tacos Dorados, you can use flour tortillas if that's what you prefer. However, corn tortillas tend to crisp up better when fried.
• Spices and Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings based on your taste. You can add cayenne pepper for extra heat, or even mix in some taco seasoning for convenience.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you've got your ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking! Follow these simple steps to make the best Tacos Dorados with Ground Beef.

Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef Filling

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
2. Sauté the chopped onion until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Season the beef with cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for another 2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
6. Pour in the tomato sauce or diced tomatoes, stirring to coat the beef. Let it simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken slightly.
7. Remove the skillet from heat and set the ground beef mixture aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Assemble the Tacos

1. Warm the corn tortillas: To prevent them from cracking when folded, briefly heat the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for 20-30 seconds.
2. Fill the tortillas: Place about 2 tablespoons of the beef mixture onto one side of each tortilla. Fold the tortilla in half to cover the filling. If needed, secure the edges with a toothpick to hold the taco together during frying.

Step 3: Fry the Tacos

1. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot enough for frying but not smoking.
2. Fry the tacos in batches: Carefully place the filled tortillas in the hot oil, frying for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until both sides are crispy and golden brown.
3. Use tongs to transfer the fried tacos to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

How to Cook Tacos Dorados: A Step-by-Step Guide

Let’s break down the cooking process to ensure that every step is clear. From preparing the filling to frying the tacos, each stage is essential to achieving that perfect crunch.

1. Start by seasoning the beef: When browning the ground beef, make sure to season it well with cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika to enhance the flavors.
2. Don’t skip warming the tortillas: This step is crucial to prevent the tortillas from cracking when folded. A quick pass through a skillet or microwave softens them, making them pliable for stuffing.
3. Fry in hot oil: Ensuring your oil is hot enough (around 350°F) is key to getting that crispy texture. Test the oil by dipping a small piece of tortilla into it; if it sizzles, you're ready to fry.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Tacos Dorados come out perfect every time, avoid these common mistakes:

• Overstuffing the tacos: While it's tempting to load up on the beef filling, overstuffing can make it difficult to close the tortilla and lead to filling spilling out during frying.
• Frying at too low a temperature: If the oil isn’t hot enough, the tacos will absorb too much oil, becoming greasy instead of crispy.
• Skipping the toothpicks: If you're worried about the tacos opening while frying, use toothpicks to hold them together. Just don’t forget to remove them before serving!

Serving and Presentation Tips

When serving Tacos Dorados, it's all about the toppings! Arrange the fried tacos on a platter and offer a variety of toppings for your guests to customize their tacos. Shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, crumbled queso fresco, and a dollop of sour cream all make for excellent options.

How to Serve Tacos Dorados

Serve Tacos Dorados fresh and hot, right after frying. For the best experience:

• Pair with fresh salsa or guacamole for dipping.
• Add a side of Mexican rice and refried beans to create a full meal.
• Offer a few wedges of lime for a zesty finish.

Presentation Ideas for Tacos Dorados

Presentation can elevate your dish. Here are some ideas:

• Platter presentation: Arrange the tacos on a large platter with all the toppings in small bowls around them for easy access.
• Drizzle sauces: For a more elegant look, drizzle some sour cream or salsa verde over the tacos.
• Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves on top for a pop of color and flavor.

Tacos Dorados Recipe Tips

• Prepping ahead: You can prepare the beef filling in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Warm it before assembling the tacos.
• Preventing greasy tacos: Make sure to drain excess oil by placing the fried tacos on paper towels right after frying.
• Reheating leftovers: To maintain crispiness, reheat any leftover tacos in an oven or air fryer instead of the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I bake Tacos Dorados instead of frying them?
A: Yes! You can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes or until golden and crispy. Brush the tortillas with a little oil before baking for the best results.

Q: What type of tortillas should I use?
A: Corn tortillas are the traditional choice for Tacos Dorados, but you can also use flour tortillas if preferred. However, corn tortillas yield a crunchier texture.

Q: Can I make Tacos Dorados gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Just be sure to use certified gluten-free corn tortillas.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Conclusion

Tacos Dorados with Ground Beef are a delightful way to enjoy crispy tacos with a savory, flavorful filling. Whether you're serving them for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, these tacos are sure to be a hit. Don't forget to customize your toppings and enjoy every crunchy bite. Now that you've mastered this recipe, you're ready to share the golden goodness of Tacos Dorados with everyone you know!

Print