Tacos Dorados With Ground Beef Recipe

If you're a fan of crispy, golden tacos packed with flavorful, juicy ground beef, then you're in for a treat! This Tacos Dorados with Ground Beef recipe is the perfect combination of tender beef, melty cheese, and crispy corn tortillas, fried to perfection. Whether you're preparing them for a casual family dinner or for a fun get-together with friends, these tacos will quickly become a favorite. Follow along to learn how to make this irresistible dish and be sure to read all the way through for expert tips on serving, presentation, and variations!

this Recipe

What are Tacos Dorados?

Tacos Dorados, which translates to "golden tacos," are a traditional Mexican dish where tortillas are filled with a delicious mixture (like seasoned ground beef), then rolled or folded, and fried until crispy and golden. Unlike soft tacos, which are served with a pliable tortilla, Tacos Dorados are known for their crunchy, crispy exterior, providing a delightful contrast to the tender filling inside. They’re often garnished with fresh toppings like lettuce, salsa, and sour cream.

Ingredients List for Tacos Dorados with Ground Beef

• 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef: For this recipe, lean ground beef works well as it reduces excess grease while still providing rich flavor.
• 1 jalapeno, seeds removed, diced: Adds a bit of heat and freshness to the beef filling.
• 1 white onion, diced: Provides a savory base and enhances the depth of flavor in the beef mixture.
• 1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama: A flavorful Cajun seasoning blend that adds a punch of spices.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A must for adding that savory, aromatic touch to the ground beef.
• 1 teaspoon cumin: Essential for creating that classic taco flavor with its warm, earthy notes.
• 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and sharpness to balance out the other spices.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: For a little extra heat. You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
• 1 cup Monterey jack cheese, shredded: This mild, melty cheese pairs beautifully with the seasoned beef.
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Provides a tangy contrast to the Monterey jack for a richer cheese blend.
• 12 corn tortillas: Corn tortillas are essential for Tacos Dorados as they fry up to the perfect crispy texture.
• Vegetable oil, for frying: You’ll need enough to lightly fry the tacos, ensuring they get that signature golden crunch.

Substitutions and Variations

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a lighter option, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. The flavor will still be delicious, though slightly less rich.
• Cheese Options: If you prefer other cheese varieties, try using Oaxaca cheese or pepper jack for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Tacos: Swap the ground beef for a mixture of black beans, sautéed vegetables (like zucchini and bell peppers), or mashed potatoes for a vegetarian twist on this classic dish.
• Spice Levels: Adjust the heat by adding more or less jalapeno, red pepper flakes, or even some hot sauce to the beef filling.
• Flour Tortillas: While corn tortillas are traditional, you can use small flour tortillas for a softer texture. However, note that they fry up differently and may not get as crispy as corn tortillas.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Ground Beef Filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook until it’s browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add Vegetables and Seasonings: To the browned beef, add the diced jalapeno and white onion. Stir well and cook until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 4 minutes. Then, add in the Slap Ya Mama seasoning, garlic powder, cumin, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together to combine and let the flavors meld for another 2 minutes.
3. Incorporate the Cheese: Once the beef is cooked through and well-seasoned, turn off the heat and stir in the shredded Monterey jack and sharp cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the beef mixture.
4. Prepare the Tortillas: Warm the corn tortillas in the microwave for about 30 seconds to make them more pliable. This will help prevent them from cracking when you fold or roll them.
5. Fill the Tortillas: Take each warm tortilla and spoon about 2 tablespoons of the beef mixture onto one side. Fold the tortilla in half, gently pressing to seal it closed. Repeat this process with all the tortillas.
6. Fry the Tacos: Heat about ¼ inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place 3-4 tacos in the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd. Fry each taco for about 2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip them. Once fried, transfer the tacos to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Pan: Fry the tacos in batches so they crisp up evenly. Overcrowding the pan can cause them to steam rather than fry, leading to soggy tacos.
• Not Draining the Beef: Be sure to drain excess grease from the ground beef after cooking. If there’s too much fat, the filling can make the tortillas soggy.
• Skipping the Warming Step: Don’t skip warming the tortillas before filling them. Cold tortillas are prone to cracking when folded, which can lead to the filling spilling out during frying.

Serving and Presentation Tips

To make the most of your Tacos Dorados, consider these serving ideas and presentation tips:

• Toppings Bar: Set up a toppings bar with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, guacamole, salsa, sour cream, and lime wedges so guests can customize their tacos.
• Side Dishes: Serve the tacos alongside Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh corn salad for a complete meal.
• Salsas: Offer a variety of salsas, from mild to spicy, to give your guests options. Pico de gallo, salsa verde, and smoky chipotle salsa are all great choices.

How to Serve Tacos Dorados

When it comes to serving Tacos Dorados, you want to focus on balance and flavor contrast. The crispy tacos themselves provide a satisfying crunch, so serving them with fresh, cooling toppings like lettuce, diced onions, and creamy avocado or guacamole will enhance their taste. Be sure to add a squeeze of lime juice to brighten up the flavors.

Presentation Ideas for Tacos Dorados

• Stacked Tacos: Arrange the tacos on a large platter in a stacked, overlapping fashion. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
• Garnished Plate: Plate each taco with a side of refried beans and rice, topped with a dollop of sour cream and fresh pico de gallo for a colorful and appetizing presentation.
• Open-Faced Display: Serve the tacos open-faced with the toppings spread out to show off the vibrant colors and textures of the ingredients.

Tacos Dorados Recipe Tips

• Prevent Overfilling: Avoid overfilling the tortillas as this can cause them to burst open while frying.
• Crispier Tacos: For extra crispy tacos, lightly brush the tortillas with oil before filling and frying them.
• Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat, place them in the oven to retain their crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I bake the tacos instead of frying them?
   Yes! For a healthier option, you can brush the filled tortillas with oil and bake them at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.
2. How can I make the tacos spicier?
   Add more jalapeno, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture to amp up the heat.
3. What’s the best way to reheat Tacos Dorados?
   The best way to reheat them is in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to maintain their crispiness.

Conclusion

Tacos Dorados with Ground Beef are a delicious, crunchy twist on traditional tacos. With seasoned beef, melty cheese, and a golden, crispy shell, they make the perfect meal for any occasion. By following this step-by-step guide and keeping the tips in mind, you’ll be able to whip up this crowd-pleasing dish with ease. Enjoy the flavors and textures of this classic Mexican recipe, and don’t be afraid to get creative with toppings and fillings to make it your own.

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