Who doesn’t love the satisfying crunch of a perfectly fried taco? Tacos Dorados, or “golden tacos,” are a Mexican classic that combines crispy tortillas with a savory ground beef filling and gooey melted cheese. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even a quick weekday treat. Let’s dive into the steps to create these irresistible tacos right in your kitchen!
Tacos Dorados with Ground Beef
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these golden delights:
- 12 corn tortillas
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1½ pounds lean ground beef
- 1 white onion, diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeds removed, diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
1In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, diced onion, and jalapeño together. Stir frequently until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender. Drain any excess grease from the pan to avoid an oily mixture.
2Add the garlic powder, cumin, black pepper, Slap Ya Mama seasoning, and red pepper flakes to the beef mixture. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. Once combined, remove the pan from the heat and set aside.
3In the same skillet, add a generous amount of vegetable oil and heat over medium-high heat. Using tongs, carefully place one corn tortilla into the hot oil for a few seconds, flipping it to warm both sides. This step makes the tortillas pliable and easier to fold without breaking.
4On one side of the tortilla, sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar cheese. Add a spoonful of the seasoned beef mixture, followed by a sprinkle of Monterey Jack cheese. Carefully fold the tortilla in half, pressing gently to keep the filling in place.
5Return the folded taco to the hot oil. Fry on each side until the tortilla turns golden brown and crispy, about 2–3 minutes per side. Once done, transfer the taco to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
6Arrange the tacos on a serving platter and pair them with your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or shredded lettuce. Serve immediately for the best crunch and flavor.
Tips for Success
Cheese First: Adding cheese on both sides of the filling helps seal the taco and prevents the filling from spilling out.
Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level by adding more or less jalapeño and red pepper flakes.
Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough to fry the tacos quickly, which keeps them crispy and less greasy.
Tacos Dorados are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with their combination of crispy shells, savory filling, and creamy melted cheese. This recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional tacos, making them perfect for any occasion. So, grab your skillet and start frying up these golden treats!
