Spoon Tacos

Prep: 15 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Mexican

Spoon tacos offer a fun, customizable way to enjoy flavorful seasoned beef layered with fresh toppings on crispy chips, perfect for casual gatherings or camping adventures.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. lean hamburger
  • 1 pkg. taco seasoning
  • 1 (8 oz.) can tomato sauce
  • 1 pkg. tortilla chips
  • 1 c. chopped tomato
  • 1 c. shredded lettuce
  • 1 c. grated Cheddar cheese
  • sour cream for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a skillet, brown the lean hamburger.
  2. Add taco seasoning and tomato sauce to the meat.
  3. Mix well and cook until heated through.
  4. On a plate, place a handful of tortilla chips.
  5. Spoon the meat mixture on top of the chips.
  6. Add chopped tomato, shredded lettuce, and grated Cheddar cheese.
  7. Garnish with sour cream and serve.

Tips & Substitutions

For a quicker meal, swap the ground beef for pre-cooked shredded chicken or turkey. You can also use a spicy taco seasoning for extra flavor or add black beans for a heartier option. Consider topping with jalapeños for heat or using different cheese types like Monterey Jack for a twist. If you prefer a healthier version, baked tortilla chips can be a great substitute.

Serving Suggestions

Spoon tacos are versatile and can be served as a fun party dish or a casual weeknight dinner. Pair them with a side of Marys Mexican Soup for a complete meal or serve with simple guacamole and salsa for added flavor. A cold beverage, like a light lager or iced tea, complements this dish perfectly.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover spoon taco mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat until hot, stirring occasionally. If you have leftover toppings, store them separately to maintain their freshness. Tortilla chips are best served fresh, so avoid refrigerating them.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Spoon Tacos contains roughly 794 calories, with 30g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (60% of the Daily Value), protein (59% of the Daily Value), and calcium (47% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).

794 kcal 40% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 29.6g 59% DV
Total Fat 28.3g 36% DV
Carbs 95.8g 35% DV
Fiber 10.1g 36% DV
Sugar 8.5g 17% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 3000mg 100% DV
Potassium 1044.7mg 22% DV
Cholesterol 73.2mg 24% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 543.9mcg 60% DV
Vitamin C 34.1mg 38% DV
Vitamin D 0.3mcg 2% DV
Calcium 606.1mg 47% DV
Iron 5.5mg 30% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains Milk

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 spoon tacos ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the mixture and assemble the tacos with fresh toppings. This makes for an easy and quick meal option during busy weeknights.

What can I use instead of tortilla chips?

If you want to avoid tortilla chips, consider using lettuce leaves for a low-carb option or pita chips for a different flavor. You can also serve the meat mixture over rice for a heartier dish, similar to recipes like Beef And Bean Burritos.

Can I freeze the spoon taco mixture?

Absolutely! The spoon taco mixture freezes well. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it on the stove or microwave until heated through. This is a great way to have a quick meal ready to go!

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).

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