Easy Baked Taco Shells You Can Make at Home

Who knew making taco shells at home could be this easy—or this fun? It’s like crafting your own crunchy canvas for a flavor fiesta!

(And honestly, who doesn’t love a good taco? ) Trust me, once you try this, those store-bought ones will just seem.

. .

meh. So grab your ingredients, and let’s turn your kitchen into a taco shell factory—just be prepared for a few crispy casualties along the way.

Steps

Mix together chili powder, cumin, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried oregano in a small bowl and set aside for later use.
Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become soft and translucent.
Incorporate ground beef into the skillet, breaking it into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until the beef is fully browned, which should take approximately 6 to 8 minutes.
Add the prepared taco seasoning and tomato paste to the browned beef. Stir well until the tomato paste is evenly mixed with the meat.
Pour in water, stir to combine, and then remove the skillet from the heat. Prepare the hard taco shells according to the instructions on their package.
Fill each taco shell with the seasoned meat mixture. Top with shredded cheese, lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and salsa. Serve the tacos immediately.

Can I use a different type of meat for the taco filling?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a different flavor profile.
What can I use if I don’t have tomato paste?
If tomato paste is unavailable, you can use tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes. However, be mindful that these alternatives may make the filling more liquid, so adjust the quantity to maintain the desired consistency.
Are homemade taco shells better than store-bought ones?
Although homemade taco shells can be made, many find that store-bought shells have the perfect crunch and texture. Look for brands with minimal ingredients for a healthier option.
How can I make these tacos spicier?
To increase the heat level, add more chili powder or incorporate cayenne pepper into the taco seasoning. You can also top the tacos with jalapeños or a hot sauce of your choice.
What are some recommended toppings for hard shell tacos?
Essential toppings include shredded cheese, lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sour cream. For additional flavor, you can add guacamole, pickled jalapeños, or a spoonful of queso dip.

Prepare a larger batch of taco seasoning to have on hand for future meals, making it convenient to whip up tacos whenever the craving hits.
Use tomato paste instead of tomato sauce to control the consistency of the beef filling, ensuring it remains rich and thick without becoming too watery.
Opt for store-bought hard taco shells for convenience and quality, choosing brands with minimal ingredients for a healthier option.
Customize your tacos with a variety of toppings such as guacamole, pickled jalapenos, and queso dip to enhance flavor and texture.

Nonstick Skillet – If a high-quality nonstick skillet is not already available at home, it may be necessary for cooking the ground beef and onions without sticking.
Wooden Spoon – For breaking up the ground beef into smaller chunks.
Small Bowl – Useful for mixing the taco seasoning if not readily available at home.
quality versions, they might consider purchasing them.