Pin A crave-worthy, budget-friendly version of the famous fast-food favorite: crunchy seasoned beef tacos wrapped in warm, cheesy flatbreads finished with lettuce cheese and zesty sauce.
The first time I tried recreating cheesy gordita crunch tacos my kitchen smelled amazing and everyone rushed in for seconds. It was the best feedback any home cook could ask for!
Ingredients
- Beef & Seasonings: 1/2 lb (225 g) ground beef, 1/2 small onion finely diced, 1 clove garlic minced, 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade), 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 2 tablespoons water
- Cheesy Flatbreads: 4 small flour tortillas (soft taco size), 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- Crunchy Tacos & Toppings: 4 crunchy taco shells, 1 cup (60 g) shredded iceberg lettuce, 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded Monterey Jack or more cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup (60 ml) ranch dressing or spicy chipotle mayo, 1 small tomato diced (optional)
Instructions
- Cook The Beef:
- In a skillet over medium heat cook the ground beef and onion until fully browned about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Season The Beef:
- Add garlic taco seasoning salt pepper and water. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the beef is well seasoned and moist. Remove from heat.
- Prepare Cheesy Flatbreads:
- Heat a nonstick pan over medium. Place 1 flour tortilla in the pan sprinkle with 1/4 cup cheddar cheese and cover until cheese melts (1–2 minutes).
- Wrap The Taco Shell:
- Immediately press a crunchy taco shell onto the melted cheese so it adheres. Remove from the pan. Repeat with remaining tortillas cheese and shells.
- Fill The Tacos:
- Fill each taco shell with seasoned beef.
- Add Toppings:
- Top with lettuce Monterey Jack or extra cheddar ranch dressing or chipotle mayo and diced tomatoes if desired.
- Serve:
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Pin My kids always ask for these when we want something fun for dinner. It's such a joy to see their excitement as they build their own tacos together.
Required Tools
Large skillet nonstick frying pan spatula knife and cutting board
Nutritional Information (per taco)
Calories: 350 Total Fat: 20 g Carbohydrates: 28 g Protein: 16 g
Sauce Variations
Make your own zesty sauce by mixing mayo hot sauce and a squeeze of lime for extra flavor.
Pin Serve these cheesy gordita crunch tacos with salsa or guacamole for an even more festive meal. One bite and you won't miss takeout!
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I melt the cheese onto the tortillas?
Heat a nonstick pan over medium heat, place a flour tortilla in the pan, sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly, and cover until the cheese melts (1–2 minutes).
- → Can I substitute the beef with other proteins?
Yes, ground turkey or plant-based crumbles work well for a different protein option while maintaining flavor.
- → What kind of sauce pairs well with these tacos?
Ranch dressing or spicy chipotle mayo enhances the tacos with creamy, tangy notes; mixing mayo with hot sauce and lime adds authentic zest.
- → How do I assemble the tacos for best texture?
After melting cheese on the tortilla, press the crunchy taco shell onto it to adhere, then fill with seasoned beef and fresh toppings for a perfect balance.
- → Are there any common allergens in these tacos?
They contain wheat from tortillas, milk in cheeses and ranch, eggs in some dressings, and possibly soy; always check ingredient labels carefully.