Baking taco shells in the oven without special molds is quick, easy, and fun!
You will not believe how easy it is to make taco shells in the oven but without a special mold. Sure, you can spend the money to buy the molds that you lay the corn tortillas over, or you can use that cash to treat yourself to something you really want while turning to what you already have—oven racks!
Discovering this trick was one of those mind-blowing moments where you want to smack yourself in the forehead. Who knew that something so easy was right in front of us all this time?
When you turn to the oven to make taco shells, you get crispy baked ones without the added oil that comes with deep-frying. It’s kinda fun to lay the warmed tortillas over the bars of the oven racks and wait for the magic to happen. I like to turn on the oven light to watch them mold into shape and transition into that lovely golden shade.
In the time it takes the taco shells to crisp into perfect handheld shapes, you can cook up tasty ground beef or any other filling of your choice. While the meat is cooking, chop tomatoes and lettuce, shred the cheese, and prepare any other delicious additions. That way, everything is done at the same time.
Are Taco Shells In The Oven Healthy?
Baked taco shells are healthier and lower in calories than those fried in oil. You can also control this dish’s healthiness by choosing the corn tortillas you’d prefer. Buying organic tortillas is easy, but finding organic taco shells? Not so much. Making them yourself allows you to monitor the ingredients.
Why I Prefer To Make My Own Taco Shells
How many times have you purchased boxes of preformed taco shells, only to discover the openings were so slim, they’d break every time you tried to fill them? That’s been my issue with most taco shells over the years—the planned taco dinners often morphed into nachos.
That’s no longer an issue when you follow this recipe and make the taco shells in the oven. By laying them over the oven racks, you now have the perfect wide opening to hold all that delectable goodness you want to stuff into that taco shell. And if any shells do break or you have leftovers but don’t want tacos again, you can use them as nachos or serve the broken pieces as chips with dips.
FAQs & Tips
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Allow the baked taco shells to cool to room temperature. Store them carefully in an airtight container in a cool, dry location away from heat for up to a day or two. Do not put the taco shells in the refrigerator or freezer, as they will absorb moisture and turn soggy. If necessary, reheat them briefly in the oven to restore crispness.
What's The Benefit Of Microwaving The Tortillas Before Baking?
Microwaving makes the tortillas more pliable so they drape effortlessly over the oven rack. Even though they are soft, corn tortillas still have a slightly firm texture. The microwave softens them so that after you coat them with oil or cooking spray, they are ready to crisp up into the proper shape.
Can I Use Other Seasonings On My Shells?
Along with the chili powder (ancho and chipotle are my favorites), you can also add cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. I’ve added a little fresh lime juice to my olive oil before brushing it on, providing a burst of citrusy flavor in every bite.
Can I Use This Method To Make Taco Bowls?
Yes! Instead of draping the preheated and oil-coated tortillas over the oven racks, drape them over the cups of an upside-down cupcake pan. It’s crucial to microwave them first to make them pliable enough to hang over the sides of the cups.
Serving Suggestions
Oven-baked taco shells are perfect with any filling, but some of my favorites include these Ground Chicken Tacos, Shrimp Tacos, and deliciously meatless Mushroom Tacos. Just replace the soft taco shells in those recipes for these crisp ones, and crunch away! Add some Taco Rice or Spanish Rice With Ground Beef on the side for a complete meal. If you have leftover shells or broken pieces, this Taco Dip recipe is a tasty way to use them.
Ingredients
- 8 corn tortillas
- Cooking spray or vegetable oil
- Chili powder optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- To soften the tortillas, stack them between damp paper towels and heat in the microwave for 30 seconds.
- Lightly brush or spray both sides of each tortilla with cooking spray or vegetable oil. Sprinkle with chili powder if using.
- Lay each tortilla across two bars of the oven rack to create a taco shell shape.
- Bake the tortillas for 8 to 10 minutes, or until they are crisp and golden brown.
- Carefully remove the taco shells from the oven using tongs. Let them cool before filling.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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