Save to Pins 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 brings together the best of fast food and homemade cooking, making family dinners both fun and satisfying.
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 to Pins This dish is often enjoyed during lively family gatherings, creating memorable moments around the dinner table.
Notes
Pair with a light Mexican lager or limeade for a refreshing complement to the rich flavors.
Required Tools
Large skillet Nonstick skillet or griddle Spatula Measuring spoons
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese, sauce) gluten (flour tortillas taco shells) Check sauce and seasoning labels for gluten soy or egg if allergies are a concern.
Save to Pins Enjoy these cheesy gordita crunch tacos fresh for the best combination of crispiness and melty cheese.
Questions & Answers
- → What spices enhance the seasoned beef?
Cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder combine to give the beef a rich, smoky, and slightly spicy flavor.
- → How do you keep the taco shell crunchy when wrapped with flatbread?
Wrapping warm, melted-cheese flatbreads gently around the crunchy taco shells helps the shells retain their crispiness while adding a soft, cheesy exterior.
- → Can I substitute the ground beef for a vegetarian option?
Yes, seasoned black beans or plant-based crumbles make great fillings that maintain texture and flavor.
- → What sauces pair well with this dish?
Creamy chipotle sauce or spicy ranch are ideal for adding a tangy, mildly smoky kick that complements the other flavors.
- → How long does it take to prepare and cook?
The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 35 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal choice.