There’s something undeniably comforting about creating your own food from scratch, especially when it culminates in a dish as fun and flavorful as Fry Bread Tacos. Picture this: a warm, golden-brown fry bread, crispy on the outside yet soft and chewy on the inside, waiting to be piled high with spiced ground beef, kidney beans, and a mountain of fresh toppings. After a particularly long week, I found myself searching for a satisfying way to shake off the fast-food cycle, and these tacos truly delivered.
What’s more, this recipe is a wonderful canvas for creativity! You can easily customize the toppings to suit your taste or what you have on hand. A taco night with family or friends suddenly feels like an adventure, sparking laughter and conversation around the table. So gather your ingredients and let’s dive into a homemade taco night that celebrates the joy of cooking in the coziest way possible!
Why will you love Fry Bread Tacos?
Simplicity in preparation: With just a few common ingredients, you can whip up these tasty tacos in no time.
Irresistible crunch: The golden-brown fry bread is both crispy and chewy, providing the perfect contrast to savory fillings.
Fun topping options: From spicy jalapeños to creamy avocados, customize each taco to suit every palate at your table.
Crowd-pleaser: Serving a group? These tacos will delight family and friends alike, making you the star of taco night!
Comfort food redefined: Inspired by traditional recipes, this dish brings a taste of home-cooked goodness to your kitchen.
For more inspiration, check out similar delicious recipes that celebrate comforting home-cooked meals!
Fry Bread Taco Ingredients
• Get ready to create a delicious meal!
For the Fry Bread
- All-purpose flour – This forms the base of your fry bread, giving it that delightful chewiness.
- Baking powder – Essential for a light and fluffy texture in the fry bread.
- White sugar – Just a hint of sweetness balances the savory elements perfectly.
- Salt – Enhances all the flavors for a well-rounded taste.
- Lukewarm water – Helps activate the baking powder while keeping the dough moist.
- Oil for frying – Use enough oil to fully submerge the fry bread for that perfect crispiness.
For the Filling
- Ground beef – The hearty anchor of your tacos, bringing in rich flavor and protein.
- Kidney beans – A staple in this recipe, adding texture and a boost of nutrition.
- Chili seasoning mix – Infuses the meat and beans with a robust flavor that steals the show!
For the Toppings
- Shredded Cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully over the warm ingredients for a satisfying richness.
- Chopped iceberg lettuce – Adds a refreshing crunch that balances the taco’s warmth.
- Chopped tomatoes – Brightens each bite with fresh acidity.
- Sour cream – A cool and creamy topping that brings everything together beautifully.
Embrace the spirit of love for cooking with these Fry Bread Tacos; they aren’t just a meal—they’re an experience!
How to Make Fry Bread Tacos
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Whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Gradually stir in the lukewarm water until a slightly sticky dough forms. Set aside to rest while your oil preheats.
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Heat oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 375°F (190°C). You want it hot enough to ensure your fry bread cooks quickly and evenly, creating that golden crust.
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Divide dough into 6 equal portions. Flatten each one into a round disc, about the size of your palm. This ensures they fry evenly and are easy to handle.
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Fry dough discs one at a time in the hot oil. Cook for about 2 minutes until the bottom is browned. Flip with tongs and continue cooking for about 1 minute more until golden brown on both sides. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
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Cook beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring until browned and crumbly. Mix in the kidney beans and chili seasoning, cooking until heated through, about 5 minutes.
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Assemble tacos: Place each fry bread on a plate, then generously top with the chili mixture, shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream.
Optional: Add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Fry Bread Tacos Variations
Feel free to mix and match ingredients to create a dish that perfectly suits your cravings and dietary needs!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a deliciously crispy fry bread.
- Vegetarian: Swap ground beef for sautéed mushrooms or lentils; both options are rich in flavor and heartiness.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for an extra heat element that ignites your taste buds.
- Cheese Lovers: Experiment with creamy mozzarella or spicy pepper jack instead of Cheddar for a delightful melty twist that elevates the dish.
- Mexican Street Corn: Top with a mix of corn, lime, and cotija cheese for a refreshing addition that brings a burst of flavor and sweetness.
- Herbaceous Touch: Incorporate fresh cilantro or green onions into your toppings for a bright pop of freshness and a delightful aroma.
- Sweet Twist: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar to the fry bread batter for a sweet version, then top with whipped cream and fresh fruit!
- Baked Option: Instead of frying, bake the dough discs at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes for a healthier yet equally tasty option.
These variations invite creativity and ensure there’s something delightful for everyone at the table!
Expert Tips for Fry Bread Tacos
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Perfect Dough Consistency: Ensure your dough is slightly sticky; it helps the fry bread develop that irresistible texture. If it’s too dry, add a touch more water.
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Temperature Matters: Maintain the oil temperature at 375°F (190°C); too low results in greasy bread, while too high can burn it before cooking through.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the dough discs one at a time for an even crisp. Overcrowding can cause the oil temperature to drop, leading to soggy fry bread.
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Customize Your Filling: Feel free to replace ground beef with turkey or tofu for a different twist! Just make sure to season accordingly for delicious flavors.
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Layer Wisely: Start with the chili mixture on the fry bread, followed by cheese, to prevent sogginess from the toppings soaking in. Enjoy your Fry Bread Tacos!
How to Store and Freeze Fry Bread Tacos
Fridge: Keep leftover fry bread tacos in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave to restore warmth and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked fry bread (without toppings) in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Thaw frozen fry bread at room temperature before reheating. Warm in a skillet over medium heat for that lovely crispiness.
Filling Storage: Store the chili mixture separately in the fridge for up to 3 days; just mix with fresh toppings before serving for the best flavor!
What to Serve with Fry Bread Tacos?
Creating the perfect meal experience around your fry bread tacos can elevate your dining delight!
- Mexican Street Corn: This buttery and cheesy corn brings irresistible sweetness and a slight crunch, perfectly complementing the savory tacos.
- Guacamole: The creamy, rich texture of guacamole balances the crispy fry bread, while its avocado flavor enhances every bite.
- Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomatoes, onions, and cilantro combine for a zesty topping that adds brightness and freshness to the meal.
- Refried Beans: Creamy and satisfying, refried beans offer a velvety contrast to the crunchy fry bread, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
- Crispy Tortilla Chips: Serve them with salsa or guacamole for a fun, crunchy side that will keep the fiesta going!
- Limeade: The tangy sweetness of homemade limeade refreshes your palate, making it a wonderful pairing for the bold flavors.
- Churros: End your meal on a sweet note! These cinnamon-sugar treats provide a delightful crunch followed by a warm, soft inside.
- Ice-cold Mexican Beer: A light lager or ale enhances the flavors of your tacos and completes the meal with a classic touch.
- Cabbage Slaw: Tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, this slaw adds a crisp texture and bright flavor contrast to the hearty tacos.
- Margaritas: For those looking to enjoy a festive drink, a classic margarita pairs beautifully with the tacos, offering a delightful citrusy kick!
Make Ahead Options
Fry Bread Tacos are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade flavors without the fuss on busy nights! You can prepare the fry bread dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. For the filling, cook the ground beef and kidney bean mixture up to 3 days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. To maintain the quality of your fry bread, lightly reheat it in oil before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy your flavorful tacos, just assemble by heating the filling and adding your favorite toppings for a delicious meal that tastes just as fresh as if you had made it that day!
Fry Bread Tacos Recipe FAQs
What type of flour is best for Fry Bread Tacos?
I recommend using all-purpose flour for Fry Bread Tacos, as it provides the right balance of chewiness and crispiness. If you want to experiment, you can also try a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may vary.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep any leftover Fry Bread Tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I suggest using the oven for the best results—simply place them on a baking sheet at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
Can I freeze the fry bread?
Absolutely! To freeze the fry bread, first cook and cool them completely. Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag, where they will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw at room temperature and reheat in a skillet for crispiness.
What if my fry bread dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to shape, don’t worry! Simply sprinkle a little extra flour onto your work surface and lightly coat your hands before handling the dough. Avoid adding too much flour, which can make the fry bread tough.
Are Fry Bread Tacos safe for my pets?
While the ingredients are generally safe for humans, avoid giving your pets fried foods, as they can be unhealthy for them. Additionally, some toppings like onion or garlic can be harmful to pets, so it’s best to keep their meals separate.
What if my fry bread isn’t crispy?
If your fry bread isn’t turning out crispy, first check the oil temperature—it should be at 375°F (190°C). If the oil is too low, the dough will absorb more oil and become greasy instead of crispy. Also, make sure to fry each disc one at a time to maintain optimal oil temperature. Happy frying!
Fry Bread Tacos: A Fun Twist on Taco Night Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Gradually stir in the lukewarm water until a slightly sticky dough forms. Set aside to rest while your oil preheats.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 375°F (190°C).
- Divide dough into 6 equal portions. Flatten each one into a round disc.
- Fry dough discs one at a time in the hot oil for about 2 minutes until browned. Flip and cook for about 1 minute more until golden brown on both sides. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes until browned. Mix in the kidney beans and chili seasoning, cooking until heated through, about 5 minutes.
- Assemble tacos by placing each fry bread on a plate and topping with the chili mixture, shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and sour cream.