Save Crunchy taco shells wrapped in warm, cheesy flatbreads and filled with seasoned beef, crisp lettuce, tangy sauce, and cheese—a wallet-friendly homemade version of a fast food favorite.
This recipe quickly became a family favorite thanks to its perfect combination of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
- For the Beef Filling: 1/2 lb (225 g) ground beef, 1/2 small onion finely diced, 1 clove garlic minced, 1 tbsp taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade), 1/4 cup (60 ml) water, salt and pepper to taste
- For the Cheesy Flatbreads: 4 small flour tortillas (6-inch/15 cm), 1 cup (115 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- For Assembly: 4 crunchy taco shells, 1 cup (50 g) shredded iceberg lettuce, 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded Mexican blend or cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup (60 ml) ranch dressing or taco sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the beef filling:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned about 5 minutes. Add diced onion and minced garlic Sauté for 2 minutes until softened. Stir in taco seasoning and water simmering for 3–5 minutes until thickened Season with salt and pepper Remove from heat.
- Make the cheesy flatbreads:
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup shredded cheddar over each flour tortilla. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low. Place a tortilla cheese-side up cover and cook for 1–2 minutes until cheese melts Remove and keep warm Repeat for each tortilla.
- Assemble the Gordita Crunch tacos:
- Gently press a cheesy tortilla around each crunchy taco shell The melted cheese will help it stick Fill each shell with an equal portion of the beef mixture Top with shredded lettuce additional cheese and a drizzle of ranch dressing or taco sauce.
- Serve immediately:
- Serve immediately for maximum crunch.
Save These tacos always bring the family together for a fun and delicious meal.
Notes
For a vegetarian version substitute cooked lentils or plant-based ground for beef Add chopped tomatoes jalapeños or hot sauce for extra flavor Pair with a light Mexican lager or a lime soda.
Required Tools
Skillet Non-stick frying pan Spatula Knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (flour tortillas) Milk (cheese ranch dressing) May contain Soy (taco shells seasoning) Egg (ranch dressing) Double-check labels for hidden allergens.
Save Enjoy the crispy and cheesy goodness of these tacos at your next meal.
Recipe Questions
- → How do I make the cheesy flatbreads?
Sprinkle shredded cheddar over flour tortillas and cook cheese-side up in a heated non-stick skillet for 1–2 minutes until melted and warm.
- → What seasoning is used for the beef filling?
Taco seasoning mixed with diced onion, garlic, salt, and pepper, simmered briefly with water to create a flavorful filling.
- → Can I replace the beef with a vegetarian option?
Yes, cooked lentils or plant-based ground alternatives can substitute the beef while maintaining texture and flavor.
- → How should the gordita tacos be assembled?
Wrap each crunchy taco shell with a cheesy tortilla, then fill with beef, shredded lettuce, extra cheese, and a drizzle of ranch or taco sauce.
- → What is the best way to serve these tacos?
Serve immediately after assembly for optimal crunchiness and to enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth cheese texture.