Easy Navajo Tacos

When it comes to comforting, hearty meals that bring the family together, Easy Navajo Tacos never disappoint. This dish combines the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef, zesty beans, and a plethora of fresh toppings, all served atop a fluffy biscuit base that’s fried to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or looking for a fun way to spice up taco night, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why It’s My Go-To

Easy Navajo Tacos are my go-to for several reasons. First, they’re incredibly simple to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of ground beef, beans, and flavorful toppings creates a satisfying meal that feels indulgent without requiring too much time in the kitchen. Plus, the versatility of the ingredients means you can customize your tacos to suit any taste. Whether you’re a meat lover or prefer a vegetarian option, these tacos can cater to everyone.

Ingredient List

To make Easy Navajo Tacos, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 lb Ground Beef (Lean)
• 1 Tablespoon Homemade Taco Seasoning or Packaged
• 1 (15 ounce) can Black Beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 (15 ounce) can Diced Tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can Pinto Beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 can Pillsbury Grand Original Biscuits (8 Biscuits)
• Oil for Frying (I used vegetable oil)
• Olives (sliced)
• Sour Cream
• Avocados (sliced)
• Tomatoes (diced)
• Lettuce (shredded)
• Cheddar Cheese (shredded)

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following gear:

• Large Skillet – For cooking the ground beef and warming the beans.
• Frying Pan – To fry the biscuits until golden brown.
• Spatula – For flipping the biscuits and mixing the meat.
• Cutting Board – To chop your fresh toppings.
• Serving Platter – For presenting your delicious tacos.

The Method for Easy Navajo Tacos

Now that you have your ingredients and gear ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making these Easy Navajo Tacos.

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until it’s browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Add Taco Seasoning

Once the beef is cooked, sprinkle in the taco seasoning. If you’re using homemade seasoning, feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Stir well to combine, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Mix in the Beans and Tomatoes

Add the black beans, pinto beans, and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This will heat the beans through and allow the flavors to combine beautifully.

Step 4: Prepare the Biscuits

While the beef and bean mixture simmers, heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Pop open the can of Pillsbury Grand Original Biscuits and separate them. Carefully place each biscuit into the hot oil, frying until they are golden brown and puffed up, about 2-3 minutes per side. Once cooked, place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos

To assemble, take a fried biscuit and spoon a generous amount of the beef and bean mixture onto it. Top with your choice of olives, sour cream, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced avocado, and shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Easy Navajo Tacos warm, and watch everyone dig in! The combination of flavors and textures makes every bite delightful.

Adaptations for Special Diets

If you or someone at your table has dietary restrictions, here are some easy adaptations:

• Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or use additional beans and vegetables.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free biscuits or make your own cornmeal-based dough.
• Dairy-Free: Skip the cheese and sour cream, or replace them with dairy-free alternatives.
• Low-Carb: Serve the beef and bean mixture on a bed of lettuce instead of biscuits.

Avoid These Traps

Making Easy Navajo Tacos is straightforward, but here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Overcooking the beef can lead to a dry texture – cook just until browned.
• Using too much oil can make the biscuits greasy; just enough to cover the bottom of the pan is perfect.
• Skipping the rinsing of canned beans can result in a salty dish; always rinse to get rid of excess sodium.
• Forgetting to drain the diced tomatoes can make the filling watery – be sure to drain them well.

Save It for Later

If you have leftovers (if that’s even possible!), you can save them for later. Here are some tips:

• Store the beef and bean mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat the filling in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.
• Fried biscuits are best eaten fresh, but you can store them at room temperature for a day if needed.

FAQ

Can I make the taco meat ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the beef and bean mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat when you’re ready to serve.

What toppings can I use on my Navajo Tacos?

The sky’s the limit! You can use anything from jalapeños, salsa, or guacamole to different types of cheese and fresh herbs.

Can I bake the biscuits instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the biscuits according to the package instructions. They won’t be as crispy, but they will still be delicious!

What can I serve with Easy Navajo Tacos?

These tacos pair well with a simple side salad, Mexican rice, or corn on the cob for a complete meal.

If you love Easy Navajo Tacos, you might also enjoy:

Ready to Cook?

With all the steps clearly laid out and the ingredients on hand, you’re ready to whip up some Easy Navajo Tacos! Gather your family or friends and get cooking. This dish is not just about the meal; it’s about creating memories around the table. Enjoy every bite!