Name: Tacos Dorados
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 12 corn tortillas; 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); 1 cup vegetable oil for frying

Golden, crispy, and bursting with bold flavors, Tacos Dorados are the ultimate comfort food with a crunch. These fried tacos are stuffed with savory fillings like seasoned beef, potatoes, or cheese, then pan-fried until the corn tortillas reach a golden crisp perfection. Each bite delivers a delightful contrast between the crispy shell and the warm, juicy filling inside.

Whether you’re looking to recreate a nostalgic family dish or trying something new with a satisfying texture, Tacos Dorados bring the fiesta to your dinner table. Serve them up with a side of fresh guacamole, tangy salsa, or shredded lettuce and crema, and you’ll have a meal that disappears fast!

Why You’ll Love This Tacos Dorados

Crispy Texture: Unlike soft tacos, these have a golden shell that adds crunch to every bite.
Versatile Fillings: You can use ground beef, shredded chicken, mashed potatoes, or cheese.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, family dinners, or meal prepping ahead.
Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and a quick fry, you’ll have tacos ready in under 30 minutes.
Customizable: Top them with your favorite salsa, lettuce, crema, or queso fresco.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Making Tacos Dorados doesn’t require fancy equipment, but using the right tools makes the process smoother and safer:

Skillet or Frying Pan: A heavy-bottomed skillet ensures even frying and retains heat well.
Tongs: Essential for flipping the tacos without breaking them or splashing hot oil.
Slotted Spoon or Spider Strainer: To remove tacos from oil while draining excess grease.
Mixing Bowl: For combining and seasoning your filling.
Paper Towels & Plate: Line your plate to absorb oil after frying.
Toothpicks (optional): Helps keep tacos sealed during frying if they don’t stay folded.

Ingredients for the Tacos Dorados

Corn Tortillas – They crisp up beautifully when fried and hold the filling well.
Ground Beef – Provides a savory, juicy filling that’s packed with flavor.
Onion – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the beef.
Garlic – Enhances the overall flavor with a rich, aromatic kick.
Salt & Pepper – Simple seasonings that bring out the best in the beef.
Cheese (optional) – Melts into the filling for added richness.
Oil for Frying – Helps achieve that signature golden crunch.

How To Make the Tacos Dorados

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Add finely chopped onion and garlic. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the onion is translucent and the mixture is well combined. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Assemble the Tacos

Warm the corn tortillas slightly to make them pliable. Place 2 tablespoons of the beef mixture on one side of each tortilla. Fold in half and press gently to seal. Use toothpicks if needed.

Step 3: Fry Until Golden

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the tacos in the pan, folded side down. Fry for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Serve with Style

Serve your Tacos Dorados hot with shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, crema, salsa, and queso fresco on the side.

Serving & Storing Tacos Dorados

Tacos Dorados are best served immediately while hot and crispy. Pair them with traditional sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a crisp cabbage slaw.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a hot skillet or oven to regain the crisp texture—avoid microwaving, as it can make the shells soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake Tacos Dorados instead of frying?

Yes! Brush the tacos lightly with oil and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.

What are the best tortillas to use?

Corn tortillas are traditional and hold up well to frying. Flour tortillas tend to get too chewy.

Can I freeze them?

You can freeze the filled, uncooked tacos. Thaw before frying or baking for best results.

What kind of meat works best?

Ground beef is classic, but shredded chicken or mashed potatoes are great vegetarian alternatives.

Do I need toothpicks?

They help keep the tacos sealed while frying, but if your tortillas stay folded on their own, you can skip them.

Want More Mexican-Inspired Ideas?

If you loved these Tacos Dorados, you’ll definitely want to try more savory sensations like:

Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps for a creamy and crunchy combo.
Chicken Street Tacos when you’re craving quick and flavorful bites.
Simple Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet for a one-pan weeknight winner.
Spicy Ranch Taco Dip for your next gathering.
Rotel Chicken Salad Dip that doubles as a creamy taco topping.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go with beef, potato, or something different? Did you top it with crema or salsa verde?

I love hearing how others put their twist on these recipes. Got questions? Ask away—we’re here to cook and crunch together!

Check out even more recipes shared daily on my Pinterest Kitchen By Kate.

Tacos Dorados

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Author: Kate Walton
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 12 tacos

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Description

Crispy and golden Tacos Dorados are a Mexican favorite made by stuffing corn tortillas with seasoned beef or potatoes and frying until crunchy. This easy Tacos Dorados recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or party appetizers. Learn how to make them from scratch with this simple guide including ingredients, steps, storage tips, and nutrition info.