Name: Homemade Doritos Locos Tacos Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups Doritos Nacho Cheese-Flavored Tortilla Chips; 1 cup all purpose flour; ½ cup masa harina; 2 tbsp nacho cheese powder; ½ tsp kosher salt; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ cup vegetable shortening; 2 ¾ cup water; Nonstick cooking spray; ½ yellow onion; 3 cloves garlic; olive oil; 1 lb Ground Beef; 2 tsp ground cumin; ½ tsp ground coriander; ¼ tsp cayenne; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp granulated onion; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp ground beef bouillon; ½ tsp MSG; ¼ tsp sugar; 2 tbsp cornstarch; ½ cup sour cream; ½ cup iceberg lettuce; ½ cup Cheddar Cheese; 1 pc tomato

Imagine bringing the taste of a classic fast food favorite right into your own kitchen. This homemade Doritos Locos Tacos recipe gives you just that. Not only are they fun to make, but the result is a crunchy, cheesy, and delightfully flavorful taco that’s sure to impress.

Photos of Homemade Doritos Locos Tacos Recipe

The ingredients for the recipe might not be all common in your pantry. Some specific ingredients you need to be aware of are the Doritos Nacho Cheese-Flavored Tortilla Chips and Nacho Cheese Powder, which are crucial for giving the taco shells their signature taste. Additionally, Masa Harina, a traditional Mexican flour, is necessary for the dough. The Ground Beef Bouillon is a key flavor enhancer for our meat filling.

Ingredients for Homemade Doritos Locos Tacos

Doritos nacho cheese-flavored tortilla chips: Essential for creating that iconic Dorito flavor in our taco shells.

All purpose flour: Forms the base of our taco shell dough.

Masa Harina: Traditional Mexican flour which gives our taco shells a genuine texture and flavor.

Nacho cheese powder: Enhances the cheesy Dorito flavor in our taco shells.

Vegetable shortening: Helps to bind our taco shell dough together.

Ground beef: Serves as the hearty filling for our tacos.

Spices: A blend of cumin, coriander, cayenne, garlic powder, granulated onion, paprika, chili powder, and beef bouillon to season our beef to perfection.

Sour cream, lettuce, cheddar cheese, tomatoes: Traditional taco toppings that add a cool, crisp, and creamy element to our Dorito flavored tacos.

One reader, Keene Barreto says:

This homemade Doritos Locos Tacos recipe is a game-changer! The crispy Doritos shell adds a delicious twist to traditional tacos. The seasoning is spot on, and the filling is incredibly flavorful. It's a fun and easy recipe that's perfect for a casual dinner or a party. Highly recommended!

Keene Barreto

Essential Techniques for Making Homemade Doritos Locos Tacos

How to make the taco shells: The process of making the taco shells involves blending the doritos, flour, masa harina, nacho cheese powder, salt, and baking powder in a food processor, then adding melted lard and water until the dough forms a ball. The dough is then shaped into a disc, wrapped, and refrigerated before being pressed into thin tortillas and cooked on a griddle.

How to cook the taco filling: The taco filling is made by sautéing onion and garlic, then adding ground beef and a blend of spices. The meat is cooked until golden brown, then deglazed with water and simmered until the liquid reduces. A cornstarch mixture is added to thicken the filling, and a portion of the meat is pureed with an immersion blender before everything is combined.

How to assemble the tacos: Once the taco shells are baked and cooled, the meat mixture is spooned into the shells, and then topped with sour cream, shredded lettuce, cheese, and diced tomatoes before serving.

How To Make Homemade Doritos Locos Tacos

Skip the line in your local store. This easy Doritos locos tacos recipe will keep you wanting for more. It is a perfect replicate of the original recipe.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2cupsDoritos Nacho Cheese-Flavored Tortilla Chips
1cupall purpose flour
½cupmasa harina
2tbspnacho cheese powderplus more for dusting
½tspkosher salt
1tspbaking powder
½cupvegetable shorteningmelted
2 ¾cupwater
nonstick cooking sprayfor greasing
½yellow onion
3clovesgarlic
olive oil to taste
1lbground beef
2tspground cumin
½tspground coriander
¼tspcayenne
1tspgarlic powder
1tbspgranulated onion
1tsppaprika
1tspchili powder
1tspground beef bouillon
½tspmsg
¼tspsugar
2tbspcornstarch
½cupsour cream
½cupiceberg lettuceshredded
½cupcheddar cheeseshredded
1pctomato diced

Instructions

Add the Doritos, flour, masa harina, nacho cheese powder, salt, and baking powder to a food processor. Process until the Doritos are broken down into fine crumbs.
With the processor running, slowly pour in the melted lard and water. Continue processing until the dough comes together in a ball.
Transfer the dough to a piece of plastic wrap. Shape into a disc, wrap tightly, then refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Grease 2 to 3 baking sheets with nonstick spray.
Working with one dough ball at a time, place between 2 sheets of parchment paper or plastic wrap. Use a heavy skillet to press down evenly into a thin tortilla.
Transfer the tortilla to the griddle and cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side, until lightly browned.
Transfer the cooked tortilla to a large bowl lined with a kitchen towel and cover to keep warm while you cook the rest of the tortillas. The steam will help keep them moist and soft.
Arrange the tortillas in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 3 minutes, until crisp. While still hot, carefully fold the tortillas into taco holders to set the shell shape. Dust with more nacho cheese powder. Let cool while you make the filling.
Add the onion and garlic to a food processor and drizzle with oil. Pulse until finely minced, scraping down the sides as needed.
Transfer the onion mixture to a large pan and sweat over medium-low heat until soft and translucent, 5 to 7 minutes.
Add the ground beef, cumin, coriander, cayenne, garlic powder, granulated onion, paprika, chili powder, beef bouillon, MSG, sugar, and salt. Stir well to combine.
Increase the heat to high and use a masher or whisk to break the meat into small pieces. Cook until the beef is golden brown and caramelized, about 5 minutes.
Deglaze the pan with ½ cup of water, stirring to scrape up any browned bits. Continue cooking for about 10 minutes, until the liquid reduces.
In a liquid measuring cup or medium bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and remaining 1½ cups water. Add to the beef mixture and bring to a simmer. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
Use an immersion blender to purée about a quarter of the meat in the pan, then stir everything together.
To assemble, spoon the meat mixture into the taco shells. Top with sour cream, shredded lettuce, cheese, and diced tomatoes.
Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 3697.73kcal
Fat: 337.15g
Saturated Fat: 110.39g
Trans Fat: 29.03g
Monounsaturated Fat: 131.22g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 69.69g
Carbohydrates: 124.78g
Fiber: 10.60g
Sugar: 13.31g
Protein: 56.47g
Cholesterol: 283.69mg
Sodium: 2576.09mg
Calcium: 1413.11mg
Potassium: 1071.38mg
Iron: 13.05mg
Vitamin A: 841.58µg
Vitamin C: 7.65mg

One Crucial Technique for Perfect Homemade Doritos Locos Tacos

When making your Doritos Locos Tacos, it's important to ensure the tortilla dough is well-rested before cooking. This allows the gluten in the flour to relax, resulting in a softer, more pliable tortilla that's easier to shape and fold. Additionally, when cooking the tortillas, be careful not to overcook them. They should be lightly browned but still flexible enough to fold into a taco shape without cracking. If they become too crisp, they may break when you try to fold them. Lastly, when assembling your tacos, layer the ingredients in the order listed in the recipe. This ensures that the heavier ingredients, like the meat, don't make the bottom of the taco soggy.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Doritos Locos Tacos at Home

Prepare the filling: Pre-cook and season the ground beef in advance to save time during the assembly process.

Batch cooking: Make a larger quantity of taco shells and filling, and store them for later use to save time on busy days.

Organized workspace: Set up all the ingredients and tools in an organized manner before starting the cooking process to streamline the preparation.

Substitute Ingredients For Homemade Doritos Locos Tacos Recipe

doritos nacho cheese-flavored tortilla chips - Substitute with tortilla chips and add some extra cheese seasoning: If you can't find Doritos, regular tortilla chips with added cheese seasoning can provide a similar flavor profile.
all purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour: For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular all-purpose flour.
masa harina - Substitute with cornmeal: Cornmeal can be used as a substitute for masa harina in a pinch, although the texture may be slightly different.
nacho cheese powder - Substitute with shredded cheddar cheese and a pinch of cayenne: Create a similar flavor by using shredded cheddar cheese and adding a pinch of cayenne for a kick.
vegetable shortening - Substitute with butter or margarine: Butter or margarine can be used as a substitute for vegetable shortening, although it may slightly alter the texture.
ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles: For a lighter option, ground turkey or plant-based crumbles can be used as a substitute for ground beef.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative to sour cream in this recipe.
iceberg lettuce - Substitute with romaine lettuce or mixed greens: Romaine lettuce or mixed greens can be used as a substitute for iceberg lettuce for a different texture and flavor.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with Monterey Jack cheese: Monterey Jack cheese can be used as a substitute for cheddar cheese, providing a milder flavor.

How to Beautifully Present Homemade Doritos Locos Tacos

Elevate the taco shell: Instead of using regular taco shells, consider using a homemade Doritos shell to add a unique and flavorful twist to the dish. The vibrant colors and bold flavors will captivate the judges' attention.
Garnish with precision: Carefully place the toppings such as sour cream, shredded lettuce, and diced tomatoes on top of the taco. Each element should be meticulously arranged to create a visually stunning presentation.
Incorporate color contrast: Introduce vibrant colors to the dish by using fresh, colorful ingredients. The bright green of the lettuce, the rich red of the tomatoes, and the creamy white of the sour cream will create an eye-catching contrast against the golden taco shell.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the beauty of negative space on the plate. Allow the taco to be the focal point and use the surrounding space to create a sense of balance and elegance.
Emphasize texture: Incorporate different textures into the dish to add complexity. The crispy taco shell, creamy sour cream, and crunchy lettuce will provide a delightful textural experience for the judges.
Highlight the filling: Showcase the flavorful ground beef filling by ensuring it is generously and evenly distributed within the taco shell. The filling should be visible and inviting, enticing the judges to savor each bite.
Add a touch of sophistication: Consider adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro or a drizzle of lime juice to add a touch of sophistication and freshness to the dish.
Plate with finesse: Pay attention to the placement of each element on the plate. Every detail, from the angle of the taco to the arrangement of the toppings, should be executed with precision and finesse.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Doritos Locos Tacos at Home

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for making dough, sauces, and dips.
Skillet: A skillet, also known as a frying pan, is a flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods. It's an essential tool for cooking the ground beef and onions for the taco filling.
Griddle: A griddle is a flat cooking surface, often made of cast iron or non-stick material, used for cooking tortillas, pancakes, and other flatbreads. It provides an even heat distribution for cooking the tortillas for the tacos.
Baking sheets: Baking sheets, also known as cookie sheets, are flat metal sheets used for baking and cooking in the oven. They are essential for crisping and shaping the taco shells.
Immersion blender: An immersion blender, also known as a hand blender, is a handheld kitchen tool used for blending and pureeing ingredients directly in the cooking pot or pan. It's used to partially puree the meat mixture for the taco filling.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Doritos Locos Tacos: A Guide

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for homemade Doritos locos tacos:

Let the taco shells cool completely before storing. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Store at room temperature for up to 5 days.
The taco meat filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through before assembling the tacos.
To freeze the taco shells, wrap each shell individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped shells in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, unwrap the shells and place them on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, until crisp and heated through.
The taco meat filling can also be frozen for longer storage. Let the filling cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw the filling in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and assembling the tacos.
For best results, store the taco components separately and assemble the tacos just before serving. This will help maintain the texture and freshness of the taco shells, meat filling, and toppings.

The Best Ways to Reheat Leftover Doritos Locos Tacos

To reheat leftover doritos locos tacos, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tacos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the shells are crispy and the filling is heated through. This method helps to restore the crunch of the taco shells while evenly warming the filling.
Alternatively, you can use an air fryer to reheat your leftover tacos. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the tacos in the basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the shells are crispy and the filling is hot. The air fryer is an excellent option for quickly reheating small batches of tacos while maintaining their texture.
If you prefer a quicker method, you can use a microwave to reheat your leftover tacos. Place the tacos on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 30-45 seconds, or until the filling is warm. To help prevent the shells from becoming soggy, wrap each taco in a damp paper towel before microwaving. Keep in mind that the microwave method may result in a softer shell compared to the oven or air fryer methods.
For a stovetop option, heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the tacos in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shells are crispy and the filling is heated through. This method works well for reheating a few tacos at a time and can help to restore some of the crispiness to the taco shells.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, consider adding fresh toppings like sour cream, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese to enhance the flavor and texture of your reheated tacos. These fresh ingredients can help to revive leftover tacos and make them taste more like they did when they were first prepared.

Interesting Trivia About Doritos Locos Tacos

Doritos Locos Tacos were first introduced by Taco Bell in 2012 and quickly became a popular menu item.

Making Doritos Locos Tacos at Home: Is It Cost-Effective?

This Doritos Locos Tacos recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of common ingredients like ground beef, spices, and vegetables keeps the cost reasonable. The incorporation of Doritos adds a unique twist, but may increase the overall cost slightly. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 8/10.

Is This Taco Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The homemade Doritos Locos Tacos recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The taco shells are made with processed Doritos chips, which are high in sodium, unhealthy fats, and artificial flavors.
The recipe calls for a significant amount of vegetable shortening, which is high in saturated and trans fats.
Ground beef is used as the main protein source, which can be high in saturated fat and cholesterol.
The toppings include sour cream and cheddar cheese, both of which are high in saturated fat and calories.

However, there are some redeeming qualities, such as the use of fresh vegetables like onions, garlic, lettuce, and tomatoes, which provide essential vitamins and minerals.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the Doritos chips with whole grain tortillas or lettuce wraps to reduce the sodium and unhealthy fat content.
Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef to lower the saturated fat and cholesterol.
Opt for low-fat or non-fat sour cream and cheese to reduce the overall fat and calorie content.
Increase the amount of fresh vegetables used in the recipe, such as adding diced bell peppers or onions to the meat mixture.
Use a healthier cooking method, such as baking the taco shells instead of frying them.
Replace the vegetable shortening with a healthier fat source, such as avocado oil or olive oil.
Reduce the amount of added salt and MSG in the recipe, and instead rely on fresh herbs and spices for flavor.

Our Editor's Honest Opinion on This Taco Recipe

The homemade Doritos Locos Tacos recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The innovative use of Doritos in the taco shell adds a satisfying crunch and a burst of nacho cheese flavor. The seasoned ground beef filling is rich and savory, complemented perfectly by the coolness of sour cream, the freshness of lettuce, and the sharpness of cheddar cheese. The recipe's attention to detail, from the homemade taco shells to the well-balanced seasoning of the beef, showcases a thoughtful approach to creating a delicious and satisfying dish. Overall, this recipe offers a fun and delicious twist on a classic favorite.

Enhance Your Homemade Doritos Locos Tacos Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Guacamole: Create a zesty and creamy guacamole with ripe avocados, fresh lime juice, and a hint of cilantro for a perfect accompaniment to the homemade Doritos Locos Tacos.

Grilled Corn on the Cob: Elevate the classic grilled corn on the cob by slathering it with a spicy chipotle butter and sprinkling it with crumbled cotija cheese for a smoky and savory side dish.

Mango Salsa: Whip up a refreshing mango salsa with diced mango, red onion, jalapeno, and a splash of lime juice to add a tropical twist to your Doritos Locos Tacos meal.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Doritos Locos Tacos

Spicy Beef Tacos: These tacos are filled with a spicy beef mixture and topped with fresh salsa and avocado for a burst of flavor.

Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas: These quesadillas are filled with tender chicken, gooey cheese, and flavorful spices, then toasted to perfection for a delicious meal.

Vegetarian Black Bean Burritos: These burritos are packed with protein-rich black beans, fresh vegetables, and creamy avocado for a satisfying and healthy meal option.

Mango Salsa Fish Tacos: These fish tacos are topped with a vibrant mango salsa for a refreshing and tropical twist on a classic dish.

Caramel Apple Empanadas: These empanadas are filled with sweet caramelized apples and baked to golden perfection for a delightful dessert option.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Homemade Doritos Locos Tacos

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Bake until golden and bubbly for a delicious start to any meal.

Caprese Skewers: Impress your guests with these elegant and refreshing skewers featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a burst of sweet and tangy flavor.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a velvety smooth and decadent chocolate mousse, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth cravings. This rich and creamy dessert is the ultimate treat for chocolate lovers, and can be topped with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of luxury.

Banana Split: Create a delightful banana split with a variety of toppings and flavors to tantalize your taste buds. This classic dessert features a combination of sliced bananas, scoops of ice cream, and a drizzle of luscious chocolate sauce, finished off with a sprinkle of chopped nuts and a cherry on top. It's a fun and customizable dessert that is sure to bring joy to anyone's day.

Why trust this Homemade Doritos Locos Tacos Recipe:

This recipe offers a unique twist on the classic taco by incorporating the beloved Doritos chips, adding a flavorful and crunchy element to the dish. The use of nacho cheese powder and cheddar cheese enhances the cheesy goodness, while the homemade taco shells provide a fresh and authentic touch. The seasoning blend, including cumin, coriander, and chili powder, promises a well-balanced and aromatic flavor profile. With attention to detail in the preparation of the taco shells and the savory beef filling, this recipe delivers a satisfying and delicious taco experience that's sure to impress.

Want to share your own spin on this Homemade Doritos Locos Tacos Recipe? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of the forum and let us know how you made it your own!

FAQ:

How long does it take to make homemade Doritos Locos Tacos?

The preparation and cooking time for homemade Doritos Locos Tacos is approximately 1 hour.

Can I use a different type of tortilla chip for the taco shell?

Yes, you can use a different type of tortilla chip if you prefer. However, using Doritos nacho cheese-flavored tortilla chips will give the tacos an authentic Doritos Locos Tacos flavor.

Can I make the taco shells in advance?

Yes, you can make the taco shells in advance. Once the shells are baked and shaped, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Can I substitute the ground beef with another type of meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a different flavor and dietary preference.

How can I store any leftover Doritos Locos Tacos?

If you have any leftover Doritos Locos Tacos, you can store the components separately. Keep the taco shells in an airtight container at room temperature, and store the meat filling and toppings in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat the meat and assemble the tacos.