Air Fryer Tacos

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air Fryer Tacos are a quick, crispy, and delicious twist on the traditional taco, perfect for busy weeknights or a fun family dinner. With golden, crunchy shells and flavorful fillings cooked to perfection in the air fryer, they offer a satisfying bite without the need for deep frying. They’re customizable, healthier, and irresistibly tasty.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beef or ground turkeytaco seasoningcheddar cheese (shredded)corn or flour tortillascooking spraysalt and pepperolive oiloptional toppings: lettuce, tomato, sour cream, salsa, avocado

directions

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat until browned. Drain excess fat and stir in taco seasoning and a splash of water. Cook until thickened and well combined.

Warm tortillas slightly to make them pliable.

Spoon a portion of the meat mixture onto one half of each tortilla, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and fold over to create a taco shape.

Lightly brush or spray both sides of the tacos with olive oil or cooking spray.

Place the tacos in the air fryer basket in a single layer (work in batches if needed).

Air fry for 5-6 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Carefully remove and let cool slightly before adding your favorite toppings.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8 tacos.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 10 minutesTotal time: 20 minutes

Variations

Use shredded rotisserie chicken with enchilada sauce for a quicker filling.

Add beans, corn, or diced jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.

Swap cheddar for pepper jack or a Mexican cheese blend.

Make vegetarian tacos with seasoned black beans and sweet potatoes.

Use low-carb tortillas for a keto-friendly version.

storage/reheating

Store leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to crisp up again.Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain crispiness.

FAQs

Can I make these tacos ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and fill them ahead, then air fry just before serving.

Can I use soft shell tortillas?

Yes, both corn and flour tortillas work—just ensure they’re warm and pliable.

What’s the best way to keep the tacos closed in the air fryer?

You can use a toothpick or press them gently to help them stay folded.

Can I freeze air fryer tacos?

It’s best to freeze the filling separately and assemble fresh for best texture.

Are air fryer tacos healthier?

Yes, they use less oil compared to pan frying or deep frying.

Can I cook multiple tacos at once?

Yes, as long as they’re in a single layer and not overcrowded.

Can I use leftover taco filling?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for using up leftover meats or beans.

Do I need to flip the tacos?

Flipping helps both sides get evenly crispy—recommended but not mandatory.

How do I avoid soggy tacos?

Don’t overfill with wet ingredients, and make sure to air fry until crisp.

What toppings work best?

Classic toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and salsa pair perfectly.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Tacos are a game-changing way to enjoy a crispy, flavorful meal in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re experimenting with different fillings or serving up a taco night favorite, this recipe makes it easy to deliver crunch and taste with minimal effort. Try them once, and they’ll quickly become part of your regular dinner lineup.

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