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 reminds me of the first time I served it at a family gathering everyone loved the contrast of soft and crispy textures in every bite.
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.
Pin it This recipe has brought my family closer as we gather to enjoy these tasty tacos together every weekend.
Notes
Pair with a light Mexican lager or limeade for the perfect meal accompaniment
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
Pin it Enjoy these cheesy gordita crunch tacos fresh to experience the perfect combination of flavors and textures.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I keep the taco shells crunchy?
Assemble the cheesy flatbread and shell immediately before serving to maintain the crunch. Avoid letting them sit too long as moisture softens the shells.
- → Can I use other cheeses besides cheddar?
Yes, cheeses like Monterey Jack or a mild mozzarella work well for melting and provide a different flavor profile.
- → What spices are best for the beef filling?
A blend of salt, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic, and onion powders balances rich, savory flavors perfectly.
- → Is there a vegetarian alternative for the beef?
Seasoned black beans or plant-based crumbles make great substitutes while maintaining bold, hearty taste.
- → What sauces complement these tacos?
Creamy chipotle or spicy ranch sauces add a zesty, cooling contrast to the seasoned beef and crunchy textures.