If you're craving a dish that's crispy, flavorful, and easy to make, look no further than Tacos Dorados with Ground Beef! These crunchy tacos, often referred to as "Golden Tacos," are filled with seasoned ground beef, folded into a tortilla, and fried to a perfect crisp. Not only are they irresistible, but they also offer versatility for various fillings and toppings. Whether you're planning a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit! Read on to discover how you can make your own Tacos Dorados with Ground Beef and some tips for perfecting this delicious dish.
What Are Tacos Dorados?
Tacos Dorados, which translates to “Golden Tacos” in Spanish, are a traditional Mexican dish where tortillas are filled with ingredients, such as ground beef, chicken, or potatoes, and then fried until crispy and golden. Unlike soft tacos, these tacos have a crunchy texture that sets them apart. They are usually served with toppings like sour cream, salsa, shredded lettuce, and cheese, making them an explosion of flavor and texture in every bite.
Ingredients List for Tacos Dorados with Ground Beef
Before getting started, it's essential to have all the right ingredients on hand. Here's a comprehensive list to prepare your ground beef Tacos Dorados:
For the Filling:
- 1 pound of ground beef (80/20 for a good balance of flavor and fat)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for cooking the beef)
For the Tacos:
- 12 corn tortillas (6-inch size works best)
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 1 cup or enough to cover half the taco)
- Toothpicks (optional, to secure the tacos while frying)
Toppings (Optional but recommended):
- Shredded lettuce
- Sour cream
- Mexican crema
- Queso fresco or shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or cotija)
- Salsa (red or green)
- Avocado slices or guacamole
- Sliced radishes (for added crunch)
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best aspects of Tacos Dorados is their versatility. If you’re looking to experiment with different fillings or accommodate dietary restrictions, here are some substitutions and variations:
- Ground Chicken or Turkey: Swap the ground beef for ground chicken or turkey if you prefer a leaner option. Be sure to season it well to maintain the richness of flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with black beans or seasoned potatoes for a delicious vegetarian twist. You could also add sautéed mushrooms, which provide a meaty texture.
- Tortillas: While corn tortillas are traditional, you can also use flour tortillas for a different texture. Keep in mind that flour tortillas will yield a softer, more pliable taco.
- Baked Version: If you want to avoid frying, you can brush the filled tortillas with a bit of oil and bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10–12 minutes or until crispy.
- Spice Level: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling if you like your tacos with a bit more heat.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making Tacos Dorados with Ground Beef.
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef Filling
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
- Season the beef with cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the beef for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's fully browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Once cooked, remove the filling from heat and set it aside.
Step 2: Prep the Tortillas
- Heat a small skillet over medium heat and lightly warm each corn tortilla for 20-30 seconds on each side. This makes them pliable and easier to fold without breaking.
- Once the tortillas are warm, place about 2 tablespoons of the ground beef mixture in the center of each tortilla.
- Fold the tortilla in half, creating a taco shape. If necessary, you can secure the tacos with toothpicks to prevent them from opening during frying.
Step 3: Fry the Tacos
- In a large skillet, heat enough vegetable oil to cover about half the thickness of the taco. You’ll need the oil to be around 350°F (175°C) for frying.
- Once the oil is hot, gently place the filled tacos into the skillet, seam side down.
- Fry the tacos for about 2-3 minutes per side or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the tacos from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
How to Cook Tacos Dorados: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking Tacos Dorados involves a few key steps to ensure they turn out crispy on the outside and flavorful on the inside. Here’s a condensed guide to follow:
- Prepare the Filling: Start by sautéing onions and garlic, then brown your ground beef, seasoning it with traditional Mexican spices like cumin, chili powder, and oregano.
- Warm the Tortillas: Softening the tortillas makes them easier to fold, preventing cracks during frying.
- Fill and Fold: Add the ground beef mixture to the center of each tortilla and fold them into taco shapes.
- Fry to Perfection: Fry the tacos until crispy and golden brown. Be sure to use enough oil and maintain the right temperature for a perfect crisp.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling the Tacos: Be careful not to add too much filling to the tortillas, as this can cause them to burst open during frying.
- Frying at the Wrong Temperature: Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the tacos. If the oil is too cool, the tacos will absorb too much oil and become soggy instead of crispy.
- Skipping the Tortilla Warming Step: Warming the tortillas is crucial to prevent them from cracking when you fold them. Cold tortillas tend to break easily.
- Not Draining the Tacos Properly: After frying, make sure to drain the tacos on paper towels to remove any excess oil. This keeps them crispier.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Tacos Dorados are best served hot and crispy, straight from the frying pan. To make them even more appetizing, here are some presentation and serving ideas:
How to Serve Tacos Dorados
- Traditional Style: Serve the tacos on a large platter, topped with shredded lettuce, a drizzle of Mexican crema, and crumbled queso fresco.
- Family-Style Platter: Set out bowls of toppings like salsa, guacamole, and cheese so everyone can customize their tacos just how they like.
- Street-Food Vibe: Serve the tacos wrapped in wax paper or with a side of rice and beans for a complete meal.
Presentation Ideas for Tacos Dorados
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a fresh, vibrant touch.
- Side Dishes: Serve with Mexican rice, refried beans, or even a light corn salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Plating: Stack the tacos on a plate and serve them alongside sliced avocado, radishes, and lime wedges for a colorful presentation.
Tacos Dorados Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: Prepare the ground beef filling ahead of time and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to eat, simply fill and fry the tacos for a quick meal.
- Crispier Tacos: If you want extra crispy tacos, let them cool slightly after frying and then fry them a second time for just 30 seconds on each side.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I bake the tacos instead of frying them?
A: Yes, you can bake the tacos for a healthier option. Brush them with a little oil and bake at 400°F for 10-12 minutes or until golden and crispy.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Leftover Tacos Dorados can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness.
Q: Can I freeze Tacos Dorados?
A: Yes! You can freeze them after frying. Let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven when ready to eat.
Q: Can I use flour tortillas?
A: You can, but note that flour tortillas won’t be as crispy as corn tortillas. They’ll have a softer texture.
Conclusion
Tacos Dorados with Ground Beef are a flavorful and crispy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight meal or an appetizer for a party, these golden tacos are sure to impress. With a variety of toppings and serving options, you can customize them to fit your personal taste. Plus, with helpful tips and common mistakes to avoid, you’ll be cooking like a pro in no time! So, gather your ingredients and start cooking—you won't regret it!
PrintTacos Dorados With Ground Beef Recipe
Tacos Dorados with ground beef are crispy, golden tortillas stuffed with seasoned beef and fried to perfection. Enjoy this authentic Mexican recipe that's simple yet packed with flavor. Serve with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for a satisfying meal. Great for weeknight dinners or gatherings, these tacos are a hit!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 tacos 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 12 corn tortillas
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Shredded lettuce, cheese, sour cream, salsa (for serving)
Instructions
- In a skillet, cook ground beef with chopped onion and garlic until browned.
- Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Warm corn tortillas to make them pliable.
- Spoon beef mixture into tortillas, fold in half, and secure with a toothpick.
- Heat oil in a pan and fry tacos until crispy and golden.
- Drain on paper towels, then serve with lettuce, cheese, sour cream, and salsa.
Notes
- Warm tortillas before folding to prevent cracking.
- Customize with toppings like guacamole, jalapeños, or pico de gallo.
- Use ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 taco
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
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