Homemade Hard Taco Shells

Name: Homemade Hard Taco Shells
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 shells
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 12 small corn tortillas (about 15 cm in diameter); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon salt

25 min 12 shells Easy

All Recipes

Crispy homemade hard taco shells that elevate any taco night.

Prep

10 min

Cook

15 min

Total

25 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Taco night just got an upgrade with these homemade hard taco shells. Perfectly crispy and infinitely customizable, these shells are a must-try for any taco enthusiast. Making hard taco shells at home allows you to control the ingredients and avoid preservatives found in store-bought options. With just a few simple steps, you can have fresh, crunchy taco shells ready for your favourite fillings. This recipe is perfect for those who love the texture of hard taco shells but want to enjoy them fresh out of the oven. It’s an easy way to bring a homemade touch to a classic comfort food.

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Pro tip: Ensure the oven is fully preheated to ensure even baking.

Warm the tortillas

Briefly warm the corn tortillas in the microwave for 20-30 seconds to make them pliable.

Pro tip: Cover the tortillas with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out.

Shape the taco shells

Brush each tortilla with vegetable oil on both sides. Drape them over the oven rack bars to form a U-shape.

Pro tip: Use the middle rack of the oven for best results.

Bake the shells

Bake the tortillas in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until they are crispy and golden brown.

Pro tip: Check the shells at the 10-minute mark to ensure they don't over-brown.

Season the shells

Immediately sprinkle salt over the hot taco shells once they are out of the oven.

Pro tip: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the salt.

Cool and store

Allow the taco shells to cool on a wire rack. Store them in an airtight container if not using immediately.

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Tips & Tricks

Ensure the corn tortillas are warm before shaping to prevent cracking.
Use a wire rack to help maintain the shell shape while baking.
For extra flavour, sprinkle with a touch of lime zest before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do homemade hard taco shells last?

Homemade hard taco shells can last up to a week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

Can I use flour tortillas for hard taco shells?

Yes, but corn tortillas are preferred for their authentic taste and texture in hard taco shells.

How do you keep taco shells from getting soggy?

To keep taco shells from getting soggy, ensure they are completely cooled before storing and fill them just before serving.

What temperature should I bake taco shells at?

Bake taco shells at 200°C (400°F) for best results.

Can I make hard taco shells in advance?

Yes, you can make hard taco shells up to a week in advance. Store them in an airtight container to keep them crispy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these hard taco shells with your favourite fillings like seasoned beef, fresh vegetables, and cheese for a delightful meal. Pair them with a side of guacamole or salsa for added flavour. These shells can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to a week, maintaining their crispiness. Reheat them briefly in the oven before serving to restore their crunch.

Nutrition per serving

Calories

Protein

Fat

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