Get ready to ignite your taste buds! There’s nothing quite like a flavorful, fiery taco to spice up any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just need a quick weeknight dinner, we’ve got you covered with 18 mouth-watering taco recipes that pack a punch. From classic beef street tacos to innovative vegan and vegetarian options, these spicy taco recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey across the globe, exploring bold flavors from Mexico to Korea and beyond. With ingredients like gochujang sauce, chipotle peppers, and sriracha honey, these tacos are guaranteed to set your taste buds ablaze. So go ahead, gather your favorite toppings and get ready to taco ’bout some serious flavor!
Classic Beef Street Tacos
Get ready to savor the flavors of Mexico with this simple and delicious recipe for Classic Beef Street Tacos! This mouthwatering dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef mixture and stir to combine.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the tacos by spooning the beef mixture onto a warmed tortilla and topping with shredded cheese and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema
Add a burst of flavor to your taco Tuesday with these Spicy Shrimp Tacos, topped with creamy avocado crema and crunchy slaw. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Crema (see below)
– Slaw (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together shrimp, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp mixture and cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos with cooked shrimp, Avocado Crema, and Slaw.
Avocado Crema:
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients together until smooth.
Slaw:
– 1 cup shredded red cabbage
– 1/2 cup shredded carrots
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Toss all ingredients together until combined.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Fish Tacos with Lime Slaw
Crispy Fish Tacos with Lime Slaw: A refreshing twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the crunch of crispy fish with the tanginess of lime slaw.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod or tilapia fillets, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Lime Slaw (recipe below)
– Tortillas, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sour cream (optional)
Lime Slaw:
– 2 cups shredded red cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and paprika.
2. Dip each piece of fish into the beaten egg, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry fish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Serve fish tacos with Lime Slaw, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sour cream (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegan Lentil and Walnut Tacos
This recipe combines the flavors of lentils, walnuts, and Mexican spices to create a unique and delicious vegan taco filling. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, cilantro, diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the lentils and water to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the cumin, chili powder, and paprika to the skillet; cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in the cooked lentils, chopped walnuts, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the tacos by spooning the lentil mixture onto a tortilla and topping with your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Pulled Pork Tacos with Pineapple Salsa
This recipe combines the tender and flavorful pulled pork with a tangy pineapple salsa, creating a unique and delicious taco filling. Perfect for a twist on traditional tacos.
Ingredients:
For the Pulled Pork:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/4 cup beer (optional)
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
For the Pineapple Salsa:
– 1 ripe pineapple, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons cilantro leaves
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. Season the pork shoulder with brown sugar, chili powder, and salt.
3. Place the pork in a slow cooker or Dutch oven; add beer and barbecue sauce if using.
4. Cook for 8-10 hours or until tender.
5. Shred the pork with two forks.
6. To make the pineapple salsa, combine all ingredients in a bowl; adjust seasoning to taste.
7. Assemble tacos by spooning shredded pork onto tortillas and topping with pineapple salsa.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours for pulled pork; 15 minutes for assembly
Buffalo Cauliflower Tacos with Blue Cheese
Elevate your taco game with this bold and creamy recipe that combines the spicy kick of buffalo sauce with the richness of blue cheese. This unique fusion is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (such as Gorgonzola or Roquefort)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. In a large skillet, combine buffalo sauce and ranch dressing. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Add roasted cauliflower to the skillet and toss to coat with the buffalo-ranch mixture.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos by spooning cauliflower mixture onto tortillas, topping with blue cheese, and adding optional toppings as desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
BBQ Chicken Tacos with Pickled Onions
Elevate your taco game with this mouth-watering recipe that combines the sweetness of BBQ chicken, the tanginess of pickled onions, and the crunch of fresh cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and lime juice.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine sliced onions and chopped jalapeño in a separate bowl. Let sit for at least 30 minutes to pickle.
5. Assemble tacos by slicing grilled chicken, adding pickled onions, and topping with cilantro.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Steak Tacos with Chimichurri
Grilled Steak Tacos with Chimichurri: Elevate your taco game with this flavorful combination of tender grilled steak and tangy Argentinean-style herb sauce!
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh parsley leaves and stems
– 1 cup fresh oregano leaves
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth.
3. Grill steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness. Let rest before slicing thinly.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with sliced grilled steak, chimichurri sauce, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Bean and Sweet Potato Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this vibrant recipe that combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the earthy richness of black beans. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a colorful weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, avocado, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add black beans to the skillet; stir to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning roasted sweet potatoes, black bean mixture, and desired toppings onto tortillas.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Korean Beef Tacos with Gochujang Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Korean cuisine in a twist on traditional tacos, featuring tender beef short ribs, spicy gochujang sauce, and crunchy kimchi slaw.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef short ribs
– 2 tbsp gochujang paste
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 4 tacos shells
– Kimchi slaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Optional toppings: cilantro, lime wedges, crispy garlic
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together gochujang paste, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
3. Add the beef short ribs and marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Cook in the oven for 2-3 hours, or until tender.
5. While the beef cooks, prepare the tacos shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble the tacos by slicing the cooked beef and placing it onto a shell, topping with kimchi slaw and desired optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (marinating) + 15 minutes (assembling)
Mushroom and Jackfruit Carnitas Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this innovative recipe that combines the savory flavors of mushrooms, jackfruit, and carnitas. This unique twist on traditional tacos will surely impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jackfruit (canned or fresh), drained and chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the lard or oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms, garlic, oregano, and cumin. Cook until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in the jackfruit, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the flavors meld together.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the tacos by spooning the mushroom-jackfruit mixture onto a tortilla, topping with radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baja-Style Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Dressing
Experience the bold flavors of Baja California with this simple recipe for fish tacos, featuring tender beer-battered cod and a zesty cilantro lime dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod fillets
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup lager beer
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 8 corn tortillas
– Cilantro Lime Dressing (recipe below)
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, and cilantro leaves for garnish
Cilantro Lime Dressing:
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour and beer.
2. Dip cod fillets in the batter, then fry in hot oil until golden brown (3-4 minutes).
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos with fried fish, Cilantro Lime Dressing, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Turkey Taco Lettuce Wraps
These lettuce wraps are the perfect combination of flavors and textures, with tender turkey, crunchy veggies, and creamy avocado. They’re also surprisingly easy to make!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 lettuce leaves (Romaine or Buttercrunch work well)
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet, cooking until they’re tender.
3. Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Warm the lettuce leaves by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the wraps by spooning the turkey mixture onto a warmed lettuce leaf, topping with sliced avocado and shredded cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Chipotle Lime Shrimp Tacos
Add a burst of flavor to your tacos with this simple recipe that combines succulent shrimp with the smoky heat of chipotle peppers and the brightness of lime juice. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 8 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, chipotle peppers, and olive oil.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
4. Remove the shrimp from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos with grilled shrimp, sliced onion, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Breakfast Tacos with Scrambled Eggs and Chorizo
Start your day off right with these flavorful breakfast tacos filled with scrambled eggs, spicy chorizo, and creamy avocado. A perfect blend of Mexican-inspired flavors in a convenient and delicious package.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1/2 pound chorizo sausage, casings removed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 corn tortillas
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, cilantro, sour cream
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chorizo and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in scrambled eggs and cook until set, stirring occasionally.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning egg and chorizo mixture onto a warmed tortilla, topping with diced avocado and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Brisket Tacos with Grilled Peppers
Elevate your taco game with this mouthwatering combination of tender smoked brisket, crispy grilled peppers, and tangy toppings. Perfect for a backyard BBQ or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef brisket
– 1 cup wood chips (your preferred type for smoking)
– 4-6 corn tortillas
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced onions, sour cream, shredded cheese, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F. Place the brisket in the smoker for 8-10 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
2. Meanwhile, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced peppers and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until charred and tender.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in foil and heating on the grill for a few minutes.
4. Assemble tacos with smoked brisket, grilled peppers, cilantro, lime juice, and your desired toppings.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (smoking), 15-20 minutes (grilling peppers)
Sriracha Honey Chicken Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this sweet and spicy recipe that combines the richness of honey with the boldness of Sriracha. This unique flavor combination is sure to delight your taste buds!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 2 tbsp Sriracha sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Sriracha and honey until smooth.
2. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
3. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
5. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
6. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
8. Assemble tacos with grilled chicken, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
9. Add desired toppings and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Carnitas Tacos with Pickled Jalapeños
Experience the rich flavors of Mexico with this simple recipe for Carnitas Tacos with Pickled Jalapeños. Tender pork shoulder, crispy tortillas, and spicy pickles come together to create a delicious and authentic Mexican dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Pickled Jalapeños (see below for recipe)
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, salsa, lime wedges
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine pork shoulder, lard or oil, orange juice, garlic, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Cover and braise for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
4. Shred pork with two forks.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with shredded pork, pickled Jalapeños, and desired toppings.
Pickled Jalapeños Recipe:
– Slice 2 jalapeños into thin rounds
– Combine sliced jalapeños, 1 cup vinegar (apple cider or white wine), 1/4 cup water, salt, and pepper in a jar.
– Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meal routine with these 18 mouth-watering taco recipes! From classic beef street tacos to vegan lentil and walnut options, there’s something for every occasion. Savor the bold flavors of spicy shrimp tacos with avocado crema or crispy fish tacos with lime slaw. Or try new twists like buffalo cauliflower tacos with blue cheese or BBQ chicken tacos with pickled onions. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting breakfast taco or a bold Korean beef taco, these recipes will satisfy your cravings.
