Double Decker Tacos

20m
Prep Time
15m
Cook Time
35m
Ready In


"This is almost a clone of Taco Bell's Double decker tacos, I could eat these everyday of the week!"

Original is 8 servings

Nutritional

  • Serving Size: 1 (257.4 g)
  • Calories 395.3
  • Total Fat - 18.5 g
  • Saturated Fat - 7.7 g
  • Cholesterol - 67.8 mg
  • Sodium - 637.9 mg
  • Total Carbohydrate - 33.3 g
  • Dietary Fiber - 5.5 g
  • Sugars - 4.9 g
  • Protein - 24.2 g
  • Calcium - 221.4 mg
  • Iron - 3.5 mg
  • Vitamin C - 7.2 mg
  • Thiamin - 0.1 mg

Step by Step Method

Step 1

Fry ground beef with onion and garlic. Drain well and return to pan. Toss meat with the tablespoon of flour. Stir in water, chili powder, pepper, salt, cumin, brown sugar, and hot sauce. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, and breaking any large chunks of beef into smaller bits.

Step 2

Heat a griddle or heavy skillet over medium heat. Lightly spray or drizzle with a little oil and then cook corn tortillas until lightly browned on both sides (1-2 minutes per side).

Step 3

Evenly spread about 1/4 cup of the warmed refried beans over a cooked corn tortilla. Place a hard taco shell inside and wrap with the tortilla, so that the beans are a layer between the hard shell and soft tortilla.

Step 4

Fill taco with about 1/4 cup meat mixture, 1/2 cup lettuce, 2 tablespoons shredded cheese and as much as you want to use of diced tomato.

Tips


No special items needed.

Editorial Notes

The ingredient tips, suggestions, variations, facts, questions and answers below are not edits to the original author's recipe. They are not meant to imply any change would improve the recipe. They're offered for convenience, alternative ideas, and points of interest. If you have any comments about them, please post in the Help & Ideas forum.


  • When purchasing taco shells, look for shells that are labeled "hard" or "crispy".
  • For the ground beef, use lean ground beef for a healthier option.

  • For the ground beef, use lean ground turkey for a healthier option. The benefit of this substitution is that it is lower in fat and calories than beef, while still providing the same flavor and texture.
  • For the refried beans, use black beans for a more nutrient-dense option. The benefit of this substitution is that black beans are higher in fiber, protein, and vitamins than refried beans, making them a healthier choice.

Vegetarian Version Replace the ground beef with a vegetarian meat substitute and increase the amount of refried beans to 3 cups. Replace the chili powder with smoked paprika and add 1/4 cup of diced bell peppers. Omit the hot sauce.


Mexican Version Replace the ground beef with chorizo, increase the amount of refried beans to 3 cups, and add 1/4 cup of diced jalapenos. Replace the chili powder with cumin and add 1/2 teaspoon of oregano. Add 1/4 cup of diced red onions and 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro.


Mexican Rice: A simple side of Mexican rice is the perfect accompaniment to these Double Decker Tacos. The fluffy, flavorful rice is a great contrast to the crunchy tacos and adds a delicious layer of flavor to the meal.


Refried Beans: Refried beans are a classic accompaniment to Double Decker Tacos. They are creamy and flavorful, and provide a great contrast to the crunchy tacos. The beans also add a protein-rich element to the meal, making it a complete and satisfying dinner.




FAQ

Q: What type of tortillas should I use?

A: You can use either corn tortillas or soft-taco-sized flour tortillas for this recipe.



Q: How long should I cook the tortillas?

A: Cook each side of the tortilla for about 1 minute, or until lightly browned.

3 Reviews

MelMel

We really liked these but I think next time I will use more beef and no beans (The kids kind of picked over the beans). My hubby and I loved them with the beans but you know how kids are! I will absolutely make these again.

5.0

review by:
(12 Sep 2012)

dana_flynn

Loved this very much, I can see why you could eat these everyday, I sure could. Saving to my favorites, thanks for your recipe DeeCooker41

5.0

review by:
(26 Aug 2012)

Gerry

WOW! I cut this back for the two of us and yes I was wowed by this new to us Taco recipe. Guess who has never been to Taco Bell! It's easy to do, great taste and and looks super good plated! Looking forward to making this for family and friends. Next time I will try to get some post worthy photos!

5.0

review by:
(31 May 2012)

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Fun facts:

The Double Decker Taco is said to have been invented by Taco Bell founder Glen Bell in the late 1960s, who was inspired by the tostadas served in Mexican restaurants.

In the 1980s, the Double Decker Taco was made famous by the popular Taco Bell commercial featuring the Taco Bell Chihuahua, which ran for several years and was one of the most successful ad campaigns in the fast food industry.