Funky Tacos
A lively taco recipe featuring seasoned ground beef, creamy beans, and melty cheese, topped with fresh lettuce and tomatoes—perfect for a quick, crowd‑pleasing meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Return drained ground beef to frying pan.
- Add the can of beans, spooning all beans and sauce out of the can.
- Simmer approximately 5 minutes or until hot.
- Place half of the cheese slices on top of the mixture, spread out.
- Simmer on low heat without stirring until the cheese starts melting (1 to 2 minutes).
- Stir, then add the remaining cheese slices.
- Fry corn shells in a small pan with oil, then drain on a plate with napkins.
- Top each shell with the meat mixture, lettuce, tomatoes, and other toppings.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, use black beans or lentils instead of beef. Feel free to experiment with toppings like avocado or sour cream for extra flavor, which can also be great for a Taco Salad Chip Dip.
Serving Suggestions
These Funky Tacos are best served immediately after assembly for maximum crunch. Pair them with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh salad to balance the meal. For a fun twist, consider serving them alongside a Taco-Filled Green Pepper for a colorful presentation. Don't forget to provide a selection of toppings like salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for your guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meat mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. If you have leftover taco shells, keep them in a separate container to maintain their crunch. You can also freeze the meat mixture for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Funky Tacos contains roughly 1229 calories, with 12g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 114g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. It also contributes 12g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving and assemble the tacos with fresh toppings. This saves time when entertaining or during busy weeknights.
What can I use instead of corn shells?
If you prefer a healthier option, you can use lettuce leaves as a low-carb alternative to corn shells. Alternatively, try flour tortillas or whole wheat tortillas for a different texture that still holds the delicious fillings.
How can I make these tacos vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with black beans or lentils. You can also add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and onions for extra flavor and nutrition. This way, you can enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal while keeping it plant-based.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).