Description
Recreate the beloved Taco Bell Cheesy Gordita Crunch at home with this flavorful and satisfying version. It features a crispy corn tortilla wrapped in a melted cheese-coated flour tortilla, all stuffed with seasoned beef and your favorite toppings. Made with simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a fun and delicious fast-food favorite you can enjoy anytime—no drive-thru required!
Ingredients
For the Seasoned Beef:
- ½ lb ground beef
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- ¼ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 4 corn tortillas
- 4 flour tortillas
- ½ cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
- ¼ cup diced tomatoes or salsa
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions (optional)
- Lettuce, sour cream, guacamole, or jalapeños (optional, for topping)
Instructions
-
Cook the Beef Filling:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no pink remains. Drain excess fat.
Add water and all spices, stirring well. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until thickened. Set aside. -
Crisp the Corn Tortillas:
Heat about ½ inch of oil in a skillet or use an air fryer. Fry each corn tortilla until lightly golden and crisp (about 1–2 minutes per side). Alternatively, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 5–6 minutes until crunchy. -
Warm the Flour Tortillas:
Place flour tortillas on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave for 20–30 seconds to soften. Alternatively, warm them in a dry skillet for 10–15 seconds per side. -
Melt the Cheese:
Lay each flour tortilla flat and sprinkle 1–2 tablespoons of shredded cheese down the center. Allow the residual warmth to melt the cheese slightly, or place under a broiler for a few seconds if needed. -
Assemble the Gordita Crunch:
Place a crispy corn tortilla inside the cheese-covered flour tortilla. Fill the corn shell with seasoned beef and any desired toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, or sour cream. -
Serve Immediately:
Enjoy while warm and melty! These are best eaten fresh for optimal crunch and flavor.
Notes
-
Make Ahead Tip:
You can prep the seasoned beef up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave before assembling. -
Crispiness Hack:
For extra crunchy corn tortillas, bake them at 375°F (190°C) on a wire rack for 5–6 minutes until golden and crisp—no oil needed! -
Gluten-Free Option:
Use gluten-free flour and corn tortillas to make this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet. -
Cheese Substitute Tip:
If you don’t have a Mexican cheese blend, a mix of Monterey Jack and mild cheddar works well as a flavorful alternative.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snacks
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 gordita crunch
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg