Soft Taco Shells
Soft taco shells with a delicate, crispy exterior perfect for filling with your favorite meats, veggies, or cheeses, ideal for casual dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, cornmeal, salt, egg, and cold water in a bowl; beat with a rotary beater until smooth.
- Use a 1/4 cup or 1/2 cup measuring cup to scoop batter.
- Pour the batter onto a hot griddle.
- Quickly smooth out the batter in a thin circle using the bottom of the measuring cup.
- If a hole appears, drop more batter in and smooth out.
- Bake until the shells are done.
Tips & Substitutions
For lighter, fluffier taco shells, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. You can also add spices like cumin or chili powder to the batter for extra flavor. If you want a crispier texture, consider pan-frying the shells instead of baking them.
Serving Suggestions
These soft taco shells are perfect for filling with your choice of proteins, beans, or veggies. Serve them with sides like guacamole, salsa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with Ortega Chili Casserole for a Mexican-inspired feast, or use them to create your own version of vegetarian recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover taco shells in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a hot griddle for a few seconds on each side or microwave them for about 10-15 seconds. Avoid stacking them while reheating to keep them from becoming soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Soft Taco Shells contains roughly 407 calories, with 6g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2169mg per serving (94% of the Daily Value).
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 the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter a few hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook. Just give it a good stir before pouring it onto the griddle, as it may separate slightly while sitting.
What can I use as a filling for these taco shells?
You can fill these shells with a variety of ingredients. Popular options include seasoned ground beef, shredded chicken, grilled vegetables, or beans for a vegetarian option. Top them with cheese, lettuce, and your favorite salsas for extra flavor.
Can I freeze the taco shells?
Yes, you can freeze the taco shells. Allow them to cool completely, then stack them with parchment paper in between each shell. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat them directly from the freezer on a hot griddle.
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).