Hard Taco Shells Recipe

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Hard taco shells made at home deliver crunchy texture and excellent taste using either homemade tortillas or convenient store-bought corn tortillas with just a little practice required. This straightforward technique creates superior taco shells compared to commercial versions while allowing control over ingredients and freshness. The homemade approach ensures optimal crunch and flavor while the flexibility to use store-bought tortillas makes this accessible for various skill levels.

Crispy taco shells on wooden board with cheese, sour cream, and lime.

Homemade taco shells are crunchy and taste excellent! Use homemade tortillas or store-bought corn tortillas. You may need a little practice at first. Fill and serve tacos right after frying, or they may become chewy. Leftovers may be heated in the oven for crisping.

Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
10 mins
Total Time:
20 mins
Servings:
15
Yield:
15 taco shells
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Ingredients

1/2x
1x
2x

Original recipe (1X) yields 15 servings

  • 2 cups vegetable oil for frying

  • 1 (12 ounce) package corn tortillas

  • salt to taste

Directions

  1. Gather the ingredients.

    Corn tortillas, oil, and salt set out for making taco shells.

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  2. Fill a heavy skillet with 1-inch-deep oil over medium heat; heat to 365 degrees F (180 degrees C).

    Pan with heated oil prepared for frying taco shells.

    Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

  3. Fry one tortilla at a time in hot oil. Cook for about 15 seconds.

    Corn tortilla frying in oil to create taco shell.

    Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

  4. Flip over and fold in half, holding in place with tongs until crispy, about 15 seconds.

    Corn tortilla frying in oil to create taco shell.

    Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

  5. Drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with salt while still hot.

    Fried taco shells resting on paper towels to drain excess oil.

    Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

75 Calories
4g Fat
10g Carbs
1g Protein
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Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 15
Calories 75
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 4g5%
Saturated Fat 1g3%
Sodium 10mg0%
Total Carbohydrate 10g4%
Dietary Fiber 1g5%
Total Sugars 0g
Protein 1g3%
Calcium 18mg1%
Iron 0mg2%
Potassium 42mg1%

* 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.

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John Davis
John Davis

Hi, I’m John Davis!
Food has always been my favorite way to connect with people, and that’s why I started blogging about it. I love sharing quick, creative recipes that prove cooking at home can be just as exciting as eating out. Whether it’s a speedy weeknight dinner or a fun snack, I enjoy keeping things simple, flavorful, and approachable for everyone. When I’m not experimenting in the kitchen, I’m usually exploring new cuisines or hunting for fresh inspiration at local markets.

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