Name: Tacos Dorados With Ground Beef Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 12 corn tortillas; 1 small onion, finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup water or beef broth; Oil for frying (vegetable or canola); Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, salsa, cheese, sour cream, guacamole

Craving something crispy, savory, and absolutely delicious? Tacos Dorados with Ground Beef (also known as "Golden Tacos") are the perfect answer! These tacos are filled with seasoned ground beef, rolled up, and fried to a crispy, golden perfection. They’re then topped with fresh garnishes like lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese, making for an irresistible meal or snack. Whether you're preparing for a family dinner or a casual gathering, Tacos Dorados are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Keep reading for the full recipe, including tips, variations, and frequently asked questions.

What Are Tacos Dorados?

Tacos Dorados, translating to "Golden Tacos," are crispy, rolled tacos that are filled with a savory filling, usually ground beef, chicken, or beans. Unlike traditional soft tacos, these are fried until crispy, giving them their golden, crunchy exterior. They’re typically served with toppings like shredded lettuce, cheese, sour cream, salsa, and avocado for added flavor and texture. Tacos Dorados are a popular Mexican dish that delivers a delightful contrast between the crunchy shell and the juicy, flavorful filling inside.

Ingredients List for Tacos Dorados With Ground Beef

Here are the key ingredients you’ll need to make these delicious tacos:

Ground beef: 1 pound of ground beef (80/20 works well for flavor without too much excess fat).
Taco seasoning: 1 tablespoon (store-bought or homemade).
Corn tortillas: 12 small corn tortillas (the traditional choice for Tacos Dorados).
Onion: 1 small, finely chopped.
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced.
Vegetable oil: For frying the tacos.
Salt and pepper: To taste.

For the Toppings:

Shredded lettuce: Iceberg or Romaine lettuce works well for a fresh crunch.
Diced tomatoes: Fresh and juicy for added texture and flavor.
Cheese: Grated cheddar, queso fresco, or cotija cheese.
Sour cream: For a creamy topping.
Avocado or guacamole: Optional, but adds richness.
Hot sauce or salsa: Choose your favorite for an extra kick.

Ingredients List for Variations and Add-ons

Want to take your Tacos Dorados up a notch? Here are some optional ingredients and add-ons to elevate the flavor:

Refried beans: Add a layer of refried beans inside the taco for an extra filling.
Shredded chicken: Swap out the ground beef for shredded chicken or use a mixture of both.
Pico de gallo: Fresh salsa made with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice.
Pickled jalapeños: For those who like a little heat.
Radishes: Thinly sliced radishes add a peppery crunch.

Substitutions and Variations

Tacos Dorados are incredibly versatile, allowing for a range of substitutions and variations. Here are a few ideas to make the recipe your own:

Ground turkey or chicken: Swap the ground beef for leaner ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Vegetarian option: For a meatless version, use refried beans, mashed potatoes, or a mixture of sautéed veggies like zucchini and bell peppers as the filling.
Cheese variation: Use shredded mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a spicy pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Baked instead of fried: For a healthier alternative, you can bake the tacos in the oven until crispy instead of frying them. Brush them lightly with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps to make the perfect Tacos Dorados with Ground Beef:

Prepare the ground beef filling: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened (about 2–3 minutes). Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Season with taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, about 7–10 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Warm the tortillas: To make the tortillas pliable and easy to roll, warm them in a skillet or microwave. Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and lightly toast each tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side. Alternatively, microwave them in a stack, covered with a damp paper towel, for 30–40 seconds.
Fill and roll the tortillas: Place a spoonful of the cooked ground beef filling in the center of each tortilla. Roll the tortilla tightly and secure it with a toothpick to prevent it from unrolling during frying.
Fry the tacos: In a large skillet or deep pan, heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (around 350°F or 175°C), carefully place the rolled tacos seam-side down into the oil. Fry them in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 2–3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Transfer the tacos to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Remove toothpicks: After the tacos have cooled slightly, carefully remove the toothpicks.
Top and serve: Serve the tacos hot and crispy, topped with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, avocado, and salsa. Enjoy!

How to Cook Tacos Dorados With Ground Beef: A Step-by-Step Guide

Brown the ground beef: Cook the beef with onions, garlic, and taco seasoning until fully cooked.
Warm the tortillas: Softening the tortillas helps them roll without cracking.
Roll the tacos: Place the filling inside and roll them up tightly, securing with toothpicks.
Fry until golden: Fry the rolled tacos in hot oil until crispy and golden brown.
Top with fresh ingredients: Add lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and your favorite toppings for a burst of flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Tacos Dorados is straightforward, but here are a few common mistakes to watch out for:

Using cold tortillas: Cold tortillas are likely to crack when rolled. Always warm them up before filling.
Overcrowding the pan: Fry the tacos in batches to ensure they cook evenly and stay crispy.
Not securing the tacos: Forgetting the toothpicks can cause the tacos to unroll in the oil. Always secure them properly before frying.
Frying at the wrong temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying (around 350°F/175°C). If the oil is too cool, the tacos will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, they’ll burn on the outside before the filling heats up.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can make a simple dish like Tacos Dorados look gourmet! Here are a few ideas:

Serve on a large platter: Arrange the tacos in a fan shape on a large platter, topped with shredded lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese, for a beautiful family-style presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle some fresh cilantro or thinly sliced radishes on top for added color and flavor.
Use small individual plates: Serve each taco dorado with a small side of guacamole, sour cream, or salsa for dipping.

How to Serve Tacos Dorados With Ground Beef

Tacos Dorados are best served hot, fresh out of the fryer. They make a great meal on their own or as part of a larger spread with rice, beans, or a simple salad on the side. You can also serve them with various dipping sauces, such as salsa, guacamole, or a spicy crema for extra flavor.

Presentation Ideas for Tacos Dorados With Ground Beef

Colorful toppings: Serve the tacos topped with bright, colorful vegetables like shredded red cabbage, diced avocados, and fresh tomatoes to make the dish visually appealing.
Taco stand style: Use a taco holder or simply stack the tacos on a plate, garnishing with a sprig of cilantro for a restaurant-style presentation.
Dipping station: Create a taco bar where guests can grab their own Tacos Dorados and choose from a variety of dips and toppings.

Tacos Dorados Recipe Tips

Make ahead: You can make the ground beef filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will save time when you're ready to assemble the tacos.
Keep warm: If you’re making a large batch, keep the cooked tacos warm in the oven at 200°F (95°C) while you finish frying the rest.
Get creative with fillings: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fillings like pulled pork, shredded chicken, or even mashed potatoes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I bake Tacos Dorados instead of frying them?
A: Yes! To bake Tacos Dorados, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the rolled tacos lightly with oil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.

Q: Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the filling and roll the tacos ahead of time. Store the rolled tacos in the fridge

(uncooked) for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry or bake them.

Q: Can I freeze Tacos Dorados?
A: Yes, you can freeze the rolled tacos before frying. Lay them flat on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Fry them directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time.

Q: What type of tortillas should I use?
A: Corn tortillas are traditionally used for Tacos Dorados, as they become crispy when fried. Flour tortillas can be used but will give a softer texture.

Conclusion

Tacos Dorados with Ground Beef are a crispy, flavorful delight that are easy to make and endlessly customizable. With their golden, crunchy shells and savory beef filling, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with different fillings and toppings, these tacos are perfect for any occasion. Now that you have the full recipe and tips, it's time to get cooking and enjoy your very own Tacos Dorados masterpiece!

Tacos Dorados With Ground Beef Recipe