Save to Pinterest 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 enjoying quick and delicious meals that impress family without breaking the bank.
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 Pinterest These tacos always bring smiles at family dinners and are perfect for sharing with loved ones.
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.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories 390 Total Fat 22 g Carbohydrates 29 g Protein 18 g
Save to Pinterest Enjoy these tacos fresh for the perfect contrast of crunchy and melty textures.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What spices are used to season the beef?
The beef is seasoned with salt, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder for a flavorful blend.
- → How is the cheesy flatbread prepared?
Flour tortillas are sprinkled with shredded cheddar cheese on both halves, then heated covered over low-medium heat until the cheese melts and the tortilla warms.
- → Can I substitute the beef for a vegetarian option?
Yes, seasoned black beans or plant-based crumbles can replace the beef for a vegetarian variation while maintaining flavor and texture.
- → What sauces complement the dish best?
A creamy chipotle or spicy ranch sauce adds a tangy, zesty finish but can be substituted with ranch mixed with a dash of hot sauce if preferred.
- → How can I keep the taco shells crunchy after assembling?
Serve immediately after assembling the cheesy flatbread wrapped around the shells to preserve the contrasting textures and enjoy optimal crunch.
- → Are there suggestions for additional toppings?
Adding sliced jalapeños, chopped onions, or avocado slices can enhance flavor complexity and freshness.