Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Making your own taco salad shells is simple and customizable. They provide a sturdy, flavorful base that complements the fresh, zesty taco salad fillings. Plus, they’re much tastier and fresher than store-bought bowls, and you can make them in minutes with just a few kitchen tools.

Ingredients

4 large flour tortillas (10-inch size)
Cooking spray or olive oil
Optional: chili powder, cumin, or taco seasoning for extra flavor

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

Directions

Preheat Oven:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare Tortillas:
Lightly brush or spray both sides of each tortilla with olive oil or cooking spray.
Sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, or taco seasoning if desired.
Shape Tortillas:
Place tortillas inverted over oven-safe bowls, ramekins, or muffin tins to form bowls.
Bake:
Bake for 10-15 minutes or until tortillas are golden and crisp.
Cool:
Carefully remove shells from molds and let cool before filling.
Serve:
Fill with taco salad ingredients like seasoned ground beef or beans, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, avocado, salsa, and sour cream.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 5 minutes
Bake time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Corn Tortilla Shells: Use corn tortillas for gluten-free shells.
Cheese Shells: Sprinkle shredded cheese on tortillas before baking for cheesy shells.
Spicy: Add cayenne or smoked paprika to seasoning.
Mini Shells: Use smaller tortillas for individual servings or appetizers.
Air Fryer: Cook shells in an air fryer at 375°F for 6-8 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store baked shells in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a toaster oven or oven for a few minutes to crisp up.

FAQs

Can I fry the tortillas instead?

Yes, fry tortillas in hot oil until golden and drain on paper towels.

How do I keep shells crispy?

Avoid adding wet ingredients until serving and store in airtight containers.

Can I make shells ahead?

Yes, bake and store until ready to use.

What size tortillas work best?

10-inch tortillas are ideal for sturdy bowls.

Can I use whole wheat tortillas?

Yes, they add a nutty flavor and extra fiber.

How do I prevent tortillas from burning?

Watch baking time closely and rotate pans if needed.

Are these shells gluten-free?

Use corn tortillas for gluten-free options.

Can I make shaped taco bowls without molds?

Yes, gently shape over oven-safe bowls or crumple tortillas and reshape.

Can I freeze baked shells?

Freezing is not recommended as they may lose crispiness.

What fillings go well with taco salad shells?

Seasoned meats, beans, rice, veggies, cheese, salsa, and guacamole.

Conclusion

Taco Salad Shells are an easy and fun way to serve your favorite taco salad with an added crunchy twist. Homemade and customizable, these crispy tortilla bowls elevate any taco night or salad meal, making eating more enjoyable and mess-free.