Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

While flour tortillas work best for that authentic gordita texture, corn tortillas can work in a pinch. Just warm them first to make them more pliable, and be extra gentle when wrapping – they're more likely to crack.

How spicy is the ranch sauce?

It's quite mild! The hot sauce just adds a gentle warmth rather than real heat. If you're serving kids or spice-sensitive folks, start with just a few drops and taste as you go.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Seasoned black beans or refried beans work wonderfully in place of the ground beef. You might want to add some extra cumin and chili powder for that meaty flavor depth.

What if I can't find mini tortillas?

No problem at all! Use regular flour tortillas and trim them down with kitchen shears. Cut them into roughly 4-inch circles – they don't have to be perfect.

Can I prepare these ahead for a party?

The components can be prepped ahead, but assembly should happen just before serving. Pre-cooked meat and prepared sauce can sit in warming dishes, and guests can build their own.

Cheesy Gordita Crunch Recipe

Name: Cheesy Gordita Crunch Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1/2 lb extra-lean ground beef; 1 tbsp taco seasoning; Salt & pepper to taste; 4 hard taco shells; 1 cup grated cheddar cheese, divided (plus more for serving); 4 mini flour tortillas; 1 cup iceberg lettuce; 1/2 cup sour cream; 2 tsp ranch seasoning; 1/2 tsp hot sauce (such as Tabasco)

Description

This Cheesy Gordita Crunch is a delicious homemade take on the classic Taco Bell favorite, featuring seasoned beef, melty cheese, crisp lettuce, and a spicy ranch sauce all wrapped in a soft tortilla and crunchy taco shell. Perfect for a fun and quick dinner!

Ingredients

Scale

1/2 lb extra-lean ground beef
1 tbsp taco seasoning
Salt & pepper to taste
4 hard taco shells
1 cup grated cheddar cheese, divided (plus more for serving)
4 mini flour tortillas
1 cup iceberg lettuce
1/2 cup sour cream
2 tsp ranch seasoning
1/2 tsp hot sauce (such as Tabasco)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F. Heat a large skillet over high heat, breaking up ground beef with a spoon and seasoning with salt & pepper. Add taco seasoning and cook for 10 minutes until fully cooked.
Meanwhile, mix sour cream with ranch seasoning and hot sauce. Divide taco meat among hard taco shells and set aside.
Divide cheese overtop of tortillas, then bake in the oven for 5 minutes until cheese has started to melt. Remove from oven, then wrap around hard taco shells, pressing gently.
Add spicy ranch sauce to tacos, followed by lettuce and a tiny bit more cheese. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

For extra crunch, add diced tomatoes or onions. Adjust the hot sauce to your spice preference. Serve with a side of salsa or guacamole for dipping.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4
Calories: 426 kcal
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 760 mg
Fat: 21 g
Carbohydrates: 34 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 24 g