
Fried Beef Tacos Recipe
Fried beef tacos, sometimes called Arizona tacos, are having viral TikTok moments by pressing raw meat onto tortillas for incredibly crispy results. This trending technique creates unique textures through direct meat-to-tortilla contact during cooking processes. The viral preparation method produces exceptionally crispy exteriors while maintaining tender interior meat.

These crispy fried beef tacos—sometimes called “Arizona Tacos”— are having a moment on TikTok. You press the raw meat onto the tortilla before frying the whole thing for the ultimate crunchy exterior with a tender, juicy filling. And they’re easy to make—here’s how.
Ingredients
8 (5-inch) corn tortillas
1 pound ground sirloin
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
1/2 cup vegetable oil, or as needed for frying
1/2 cup minced white onion
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
lime wedges, for serving
1/4 cup salsa, or as needed, for serving
Directions
Gather all ingredients.
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Lay 8 tortillas flat on a surface.
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Combine beef, taco seasoning, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a medium bowl.
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Press 1/4 cup of beef mixture onto half of each tortilla.
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Heat 1/4-inch of oil in a high-sided skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Working in batches, carefully add one taco at a time, flat, to the hot oil.
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Hold empty side of the tortilla with a pair of tongs, and fold over beef filling once the shell is softened, about 5 seconds.
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Cook, turning once, until shell is golden brown and beef is no longer pink in the center, 30 seconds to 1 minute per side.. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 160 degrees F (70 degrees C).
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, and sprinkle with remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt.
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Serve immediately topped with onion and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges, salsa, and hot sauce.
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Cook’s Notes:
Use a lean ground beef to save on grease. Use the side of the skillet to help flip and stabilize the taco as you fold. Don’t skip the paper towel-lined plate – these are pretty greasy and just a rack won’t do.
We have determined the nutritional value of oil for frying based on a retention value of 10% after cooking. The exact amount will vary depending on cooking time and temperature, ingredient density, and specific type of oil used.
Recipe Variations:
Use flour tortillas, but cook at a lower temperature.
Try folding some shredded cheese into the beef mixture.
Use ground pork or turkey instead of beef.
Recipe developed by Julia Levy
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
481 | Calories |
19g | Fat |
45g | Carbs |
38g | Protein |
Nutrition Facts | |
---|---|
Servings Per Recipe 4 | |
Calories 481 | |
% Daily Value * | |
Total Fat 19g | 24% |
Saturated Fat 6g | 29% |
Cholesterol 101mg | 34% |
Sodium 1129mg | 49% |
Total Carbohydrate 45g | 16% |
Dietary Fiber 9g | 32% |
Total Sugars 7g | |
Protein 38g | 75% |
Vitamin C 42mg | 47% |
Calcium 128mg | 10% |
Iron 6mg | 31% |
Potassium 990mg | 21% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.
(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.