Save A budget-friendly twist on the fast-food favorite, these tacos feature a soft cheesy flatbread wrapped around a crunchy taco shell filled with seasoned beef, lettuce, and zesty sauce.
This recipe quickly became a family favorite as it brings restaurant flavors to our kitchen without the cost or hassle.
Ingredients
- Meat: 1/2 lb (225 g) ground beef, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp chili powder, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Flatbread & Shells: 4 small flour tortillas (soft taco size), 4 crunchy taco shells
- Cheese: 1 1/2 cups (150 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- Toppings: 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce, 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional), 1/4 cup Taco Bell-style creamy chipotle or spicy ranch sauce (or substitute with store-bought ranch mixed with a dash of hot sauce)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Add salt, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook for 6–8 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Step 2:
- Heat a large nonstick skillet over low-medium heat. Place a flour tortilla in the skillet, sprinkle 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar on one half, then top with another 1/4 cup on the other half. Cover and cook for 1–2 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is warm.
- Step 3:
- Immediately wrap each cheesy tortilla around a crunchy taco shell, pressing gently to adhere. Repeat for all tortillas and shells.
- Step 4:
- Fill each taco shell with a portion of seasoned beef.
- Step 5:
- Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes (if using), and a drizzle of creamy chipotle or spicy ranch sauce.
- Step 6:
- Serve immediately while shells are crunchy and cheese is melty.
Save These tacos have brought many joyful dinner moments around our table, especially when shared with family on busy weeknights.
Notes
Add sliced jalapeños, chopped onions, or avocado for extra flavor. Pair with a light Mexican lager or limeade.
Required Tools
Large skillet, Nonstick skillet or griddle, Spatula, Measuring spoons
Nutritional Information
Calories: 390, Total Fat: 22 g, Carbohydrates: 29 g, Protein: 18 g per serving
Save Enjoy this delicious blend of textures and flavors made easily at home, perfect for any taco night.
Recipe FAQ
- → How can I make the filling more flavorful?
Enhance the filling by toasting spices before adding them to the beef or include diced onions and garlic for extra depth.
- → What type of cheese works best for melting in this dish?
Cheddar cheese melts well, providing a creamy texture and sharp flavor that pairs perfectly with the crispy shells.
- → Can this be made vegetarian?
Yes, substitute ground beef with seasoned black beans or plant-based crumbles for a meat-free alternative.
- → How do I keep the flatbread soft while the shell stays crunchy?
Gently warm and melt cheese in the flatbread before wrapping it snugly around the crunchy shell to maintain contrasting textures.
- → What sauces complement this dish effectively?
Creamy chipotle or spicy ranch sauces add a zesty and smooth element that complements the savory beef and fresh toppings.