Pan Fried Crispy Tacos with Chorizo – A Flavorful Fiesta in Every Bite 🌮🔥
Hello, Kitchies! If you’re looking for a recipe that will take your taco night to the next level, these Pan Fried Crispy Tacos with Chorizo will do just that! Imagine biting into a crunchy golden shell stuffed with savory chorizo, melted cheese, and topped with fresh garnishes — all with a satisfying pan-fried crisp. This recipe is the perfect blend of comfort food with a little gourmet twist.
The magic of these tacos lies in their simplicity. The smoky, spicy chorizo pairs beautifully with gooey cheese, while the crispy tortillas bring that irresistible crunch. Whether you’re serving them up for a weeknight dinner or wowing guests at a gathering, these tacos are bound to become a household favorite.
These tacos were inspired by a little taco stand we stumbled upon during a family road trip — and let me tell you, they’ve been requested on repeat ever since! There’s something about the combo of crispy shells and spicy chorizo that makes everyone at the table reach for seconds (or thirds!).
Why These Pan Fried Crispy Tacos with Chorizo Will Be Your New Favorite
- Bold Flavors: The smoky, spicy chorizo brings all the flavor without much effort.
- Perfectly Crispy Shells: Lightly pan-fried for that golden, crunchy bite.
- Customizable Fillings: Add cheese, beans, or veggies to make them your own.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes!
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh chorizo (pork or beef)
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- Sour cream (for serving)
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
- Olive oil (for frying)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How to Make Pan Fried Crispy Tacos with Chorizo
- Cook the Chorizo: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chorizo until browned and cooked through (about 7-10 minutes). Add garlic and onion in the last 2 minutes for extra flavor.
- Assemble the Tacos: Place a small amount of chorizo and shredded cheese onto each tortilla. Fold them in half, pressing gently to seal.
- Pan Fry: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry each taco for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve: Top with lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Tips for Crispy Tacos
- Use corn tortillas for a more authentic taste and crunch.
- Lightly warm tortillas before filling to prevent breaking.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet — fry in batches for the crispiest results.
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap chorizo for ground turkey or vegan chorizo for a lighter option.
- Add black beans or refried beans for extra protein.
- Use flour tortillas if you prefer a softer bite.
Make a Healthier Version
- Use chicken chorizo or lean ground turkey.
- Pan fry with avocado oil instead of olive oil.
- Skip the frying and bake the assembled tacos at 400°F for 10-12 minutes.
And there you have it! These Pan Fried Crispy Tacos with Chorizo will bring the fiesta straight to your table. Don’t forget to let us know how your tacos turned out, and check out some of our other Mexican-inspired recipes!
Relevant Categories
- Dinner
- Mexican
- Quick Meals
- Comfort Food
Tags
#TacoTuesday #MexicanFood #CrispyTacos #FamilyDinner #Chorizo
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the tacos ahead and fry just before serving for the crispiest result.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: It’s best to enjoy them fresh, but you can freeze the cooked chorizo filling separately.
Q: What kind of chorizo should I use?
A: Mexican chorizo (raw and seasoned) works best, but Spanish chorizo can be used if pre-cooked.
Q: Can I air fry these tacos?
A: Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Q: How do I keep the tacos from falling apart?
A: Press the tortillas firmly after folding and lightly warm them before filling.
