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.
I love making these cheesy gordita crunch tacos because they bring the best of fast food right to my kitchen with fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 1/2 lb (225 g)
- Onion: 1/2 small, finely diced
- Garlic: 1 clove, minced
- Taco seasoning: 1 tbsp (store-bought or homemade)
- Water: 1/4 cup (60 ml)
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Flour tortillas: 4 small (6-inch/15 cm)
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 cup (115 g)
- Crunchy taco shells: 4
- Shredded iceberg lettuce: 1 cup (50 g)
- Shredded Mexican blend or cheddar cheese: 1/2 cup (50 g)
- Ranch dressing or taco sauce: 1/4 cup (60 ml)
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 My family gathers around excitedly whenever I make these tacos, sharing smiles and stories over every crunchy bite.
Notes
For extra flavor add chopped tomatoes, jalapeños, or hot sauce.
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 These tacos come together quickly making them a perfect weeknight meal that impresses everyone.
Recipe Guide
- → How do I keep the cheesy flatbreads from tearing?
Use medium-low heat when melting the cheese on the tortillas, and handle them gently while wrapping around the crunchy shells to prevent tearing.
- → Can I use different cheese types for the flatbreads?
Yes, shredded cheddar works well, but you can substitute with Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend for varied flavor and meltability.
- → What’s the best way to season the beef filling?
Combine taco seasoning with minced garlic, diced onion, and a splash of water to create a flavorful, moist beef mixture.
- → How can I make a vegetarian version of this dish?
Replace the ground beef with cooked lentils or plant-based meat alternatives seasoned similarly for a satisfying vegetarian option.
- → What sauces pair well with these tacos?
Ranch dressing and mild taco sauce complement the flavors nicely, but feel free to add hot sauce or jalapeños for extra kick.