This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our policy page.
Elevate your Taco Tuesday with these ten mouthwatering recipes! Start with classic beef and spicy chicken tacos that boast rich flavors. Try shrimp and avocado for a fresh twist, or go vegetarian with black bean and grilled veggie tacos. BBQ pulled pork delivers satisfying sweetness, while breakfast tacos are perfect for brunch. Wrap it all up with dessert tacos filled with cinnamon apples. You won’t want to miss the full list of delicious ideas ahead!
Classic Beef Tacos

Classic Beef Tacos are a beloved staple of Mexican cuisine, offering a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy ground beef in a crunchy shell or soft tortilla. The beauty of these tacos lies in their simplicity—seasoned ground beef, fresh toppings, and a delightful array of flavors come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and customizable.
Whether you’re hosting a taco night with friends or whipping up a quick weeknight dinner, these tacos are a surefire hit that everyone will love.
To get started, gather your ingredients and prepare your workspace. Setting everything out can make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Use fresh ingredients whenever possible, as they can really elevate the dish.
Don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings, adding your favorite salsas, guacamole, or cheese to make each taco your own delicious creation.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 2/3 cup water
- 8 taco shells or small tortillas
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Sour cream
- Salsa
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened. Then add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula until browned and fully cooked.
Drain any excess fat and sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef, adding water as indicated on the seasoning packet. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
Warm the taco shells or tortillas according to the package instructions, then fill with the seasoned beef and top with your choice of lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, and salsa.
For a little extra flair, consider adding toppings like sliced jalapeños, chopped avocados, or fresh cilantro. You can also experiment with different types of tortillas, such as corn or flour, to find what you enjoy the most.
If you have leftovers, the seasoned beef can be stored in the fridge for up to three days and used for nachos, burritos, or even a beef taco salad. Make sure to warm it thoroughly before serving!
Recommended Items
Get ready to spice up your Taco Tuesday with our favorite products and tools!
Products
Spicy Chicken Tacos

Spicy chicken tacos are the ideal blend of heat and flavor, making them an exciting addition to your taco night. Like a fiesta in your mouth, these tacos combine tender, marinated chicken with vibrant toppings that provide both crunch and freshness.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving a quick weeknight meal, these spicy chicken tacos are sure to impress.
To get the most out of the flavors, it’s crucial to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but for best results, consider letting it sit in the spices for a few hours or even overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat fully, resulting in juicy, flavorful chicken that packs a punch.
Serve these tacos warm, with a variety of toppings, to give everyone the chance to customize their meal.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 avocado, sliced
- ½ cup shredded lettuce
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges for serving
In a medium bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and combine them with the marinade, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated.
Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the marinated chicken for about 7-10 minutes, or until fully cooked and slightly charred.
Warm the tortillas in a separate skillet or microwave, then fill each tortilla with the spicy chicken and top with diced tomatoes, avocado, shredded lettuce, and cilantro.
Serve with lime wedges on the side.
When cooking spicy chicken tacos, feel free to adjust the level of heat according to your preference.
You can swap out the cayenne pepper for a milder option or add your favorite hot sauce while cooking if you’re looking for an extra kick.
Additionally, mix in other toppings like diced red onions, jalapeños, or crumbled cheese to enhance the flavor and texture of the tacos.
Enjoy experimenting with different salsas to find your perfect combination!
Shrimp and Avocado Tacos

Shrimp and avocado tacos are a perfect embodiment of fresh cuisine that brings together the bright flavors of succulent shrimp and creamy avocado in a deliciously handheld format. With a simple assembly process and minimal cooking, these tacos make for an ideal weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends. Whether you prefer to sauté the shrimp with spices or prepare them on a grill, these tacos can be customized to suit your taste, while still being a crowd-pleaser.
The key to elevating your shrimp and avocado tacos is to utilize fresh, high-quality ingredients. Selecting ripe avocados will guarantee a creamy texture that perfectly complements the tender shrimp. Adding fresh herbs, such as cilantro, along with zesty toppings can enhance the flavor profile and brighten the dish, making every bite a delight. Prepare to wow your friends and family with these delightful tacos that aren’t only mouthwatering but also visually appealing.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Small corn or flour tortillas
- Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, radishes, or jalapeños
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Combine the raw shrimp with chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and lime juice in a bowl until fully coated. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque.
Warm the tortillas in a separate pan or directly over an open flame until pliable. Assemble the tacos by placing a portion of the cooked shrimp and diced avocado onto each tortilla, and top with fresh cilantro and any additional toppings you desire.
When preparing shrimp and avocado tacos, be certain to cook the shrimp just until they’re opaque to prevent them from becoming rubbery. For added flavor, consider marinating the shrimp for 15-30 minutes in the lime juice and spices before cooking. This not only infuses the shrimp with flavor but also tenderizes them.
Additionally, serving the tacos with a side of lime wedges can provide an extra zesty kick that enhances the overall taste. Enjoy your taco night!
Vegetarian Black Bean Tacos

Vegetarian black bean tacos are a delicious and wholesome choice for both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. Bursting with flavor, they provide a satisfyingly hearty meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week. The combination of spices and fresh ingredients allows the black beans to shine, while the toppings add layers of flavor and texture, transforming simple ingredients into a culinary delight.
These tacos aren’t only easy to make but also very versatile. You can customize them based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. This recipe is perfect for quick weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even serving at gatherings. Just set up a taco bar with all the fixings and let everyone build their own!
Ingredients:
- 2 cans of black beans (15 oz each), rinsed and drained
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese or vegan cheese
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Then, add the black beans to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cook until the beans are heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
Warm the tortillas in a separate skillet or microwave and then fill each tortilla with the black bean mixture, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, shredded lettuce, and feta cheese. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
When preparing vegetarian black bean tacos, feel free to get creative with your toppings! You can add jalapeños for heat, sour cream or yogurt for creaminess, or even corn salsa for added sweetness.
If you want a little crunch, try topping your tacos with crispy radishes or crunchy tortilla strips. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients to make this dish your own!
BBQ Pulled Pork Tacos

BBQ pulled pork tacos are a delicious and satisfying dish that combines tender, savory pork with the bold flavors of barbecue sauce, all wrapped in a soft taco shell. This dish is perfect for gatherings, parties, or simply a comforting weeknight meal. With the right preparation, you can create a feast that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
The beauty of BBQ pulled pork tacos lies in the slow cooking process, which guarantees the pork becomes incredibly tender and flavorful. By infusing your pork with spices and a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce, each bite will be a delight. Serve your pulled pork in warm tortillas with fresh toppings like crunchy coleslaw or zesty pickles to elevate the dish even further.
- 3-4 pounds of pork shoulder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Corn or flour tortillas
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder. Sear the pork on all sides until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side.
Transfer the pork to a slow cooker and add the sliced onion, minced garlic, and barbecue sauce. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shredded. Once cooked, shred the pork with two forks and mix it with the sauce. Serve in warm tortillas and top with cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
For the best results, consider letting the pork marinate in the spices overnight before cooking to enhance the flavors even more. Don’t be shy with your toppings; fresh ingredients like avocado, jalapeños, or even pickled red onions can complement your BBQ pulled pork beautifully.
If you have leftovers, the pulled pork keeps well in the refrigerator for a few days and can be reheated for easy meals later on. Enjoy your cooking!
Fish Tacos With Cabbage Slaw

Fish tacos with cabbage slaw are a delightful and revitalizing way to enjoy seafood, bringing together robust flavors and a satisfying crunch. The combination of flaky fish, crisp cabbage, and zesty lime creates a perfect harmony that elevates the taco experience. This dish isn’t only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a great choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a lively weekend gathering.
Choosing the right fish is key to making exceptional tacos. White fish like cod, tilapia, or mahi-mahi works beautifully, as they’ve a mild flavor that pairs well with the tangy slaw. Often, fish tacos are grilled or pan-seared, offering a minimal fuss and packed with flavor that celebrates the essence of coastal cuisine.
With vibrant colors and textures, these fish tacos will surely impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or mahi-mahi)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 2 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
- ½ cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- ¼ cup mayonnaise (optional)
- Hot sauce, for serving (optional)
Season the fish fillets with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, ensuring they’re evenly coated. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the fish for about 3-4 minutes per side or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
While the fish is cooking, combine the cabbages, grated carrot, cilantro, lime juice, and mayonnaise in a separate bowl, tossing to mix well. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave, then assemble the tacos by placing a piece of fish on each tortilla, topping it generously with the slaw, and adding hot sauce, if desired.
When cooking fish tacos, it’s important to use fresh fish for the best flavor and texture. If possible, marinate the fish for a short time before cooking with lime juice and spices to enhance the taste even further.
Feel free to customize the cabbage slaw with additional ingredients such as diced jalapeños, avocado, or even mango for a touch of sweetness. Don’t forget to serve your tacos with extra lime wedges on the side for a fresh burst of flavor right before taking a bite!
Grilled Veggie Tacos

Grilled veggie tacos are a delicious and vibrant option for anyone looking to enjoy a meatless meal that’s full of flavor. Not only are they quick and easy to make, but they also offer the opportunity to get creative with seasonal vegetables. The combination of grilled veggies paired with fresh ingredients makes every bite a delightful experience.
Whether you’re having a casual family dinner or hosting friends for a summer gathering, these tacos are sure to be a hit.
To make grilled veggie tacos, you’ll want to choose a variety of vegetables to grill. Bell peppers, zucchini, corn, and red onions are great options that add both color and texture. The key is to marinate your veggies and let them soak up all the flavors before grilling.
Serve your grilled veggies on warm tortillas, topped with zesty lime, fresh cilantro, and creamy avocado for a fresh twist. These tacos aren’t only ideal for vegetarians but are a tasty option for anyone looking to incorporate more vegetables into their diet.
- 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Avocado, sliced (optional)
In a large bowl, combine the sliced bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and corn. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together to guarantee the vegetables are evenly coated.
Preheat your grill over medium-high heat, then add the seasoned veggies. Grill for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re tender and have nice grill marks.
Warm the tortillas on the grill for a minute on each side, then assemble your tacos by adding the grilled veggies and topping with cilantro, lime juice, and avocado if desired.
When cooking grilled veggie tacos, feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have available or what’s in season. For an extra kick, consider adding some sliced jalapeños to the mix or serving the tacos with your favorite hot sauce.
Additionally, if you don’t have access to a grill, you can achieve similar results using a grill pan on the stovetop or even roasting the vegetables in the oven. Enjoy experimentation with different garnishes and toppings to make these tacos your own!
Taco Salad Wraps

Taco salad wraps offer a delightful twist on traditional tacos by combining the freshness of salad with the satisfying portability of a wrap. These vibrant, flavorful wraps allow you to indulge in all your favorite taco flavors, but without the mess of hard or soft shells. They’re perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner and can be customized with your choice of proteins and toppings, catering to various dietary preferences.
To make your taco salad wraps a hit, it’s important to use fresh ingredients that not only enhance the flavor but also add a great crunch and texture. You can prepare these wraps in no time, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
With their colorful appearance and robust flavor profile, taco salad wraps can impress your family and friends, making them a staple in your recipe repertoire.
- 4 large whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas
- 1 cup chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup cooked and seasoned ground beef, turkey, or tempeh
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- ½ cup salsa
- ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, diced tomatoes, black beans, cooked meat or alternative, avocado, cheese, salsa, sour cream, and taco seasoning. Mix well to confirm all ingredients are evenly coated with the seasoning.
Take a tortilla and let it warm slightly in a pan or microwave, then spoon a generous amount of the filling mixture onto the center of the tortilla. Fold in the sides and roll it up tightly, making sure the filling stays intact. Repeat for the remaining tortillas.
When preparing taco salad wraps, consider adding your favorite toppings such as jalapeños, diced onions, or corn for an extra flavor kick. You can also try different dressing options like chipotle dressing or ranch to enhance the wraps further.
For meal prep, assemble the filling in advance and wrap up right before serving, to keep the tortillas fresh and prevent them from getting soggy. Don’t hesitate to play around with different proteins or opt for a vegetarian or vegan version based on your dietary needs!
Recipe Overview
Breakfast Tacos With Eggs and Chorizo

Breakfast tacos with eggs and chorizo are a delicious way to start your day! This hearty and savory breakfast option combines the rich flavors of spicy chorizo with fluffy scrambled eggs, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. The best part is that they’re quick to prepare, making them a perfect choice for busy mornings or a leisurely weekend brunch.
To elevate your breakfast tacos even further, consider adding your favorite toppings. Fresh avocado, diced tomatoes, and a sprinkle of cheese can enhance the dish, balancing the spice of the chorizo with creamy and fresh elements. These tacos can also be customized to suit your dietary preferences by using egg substitutes or plant-based chorizo if desired.
- 4 small flour or corn tortillas
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup chorizo (casings removed, if using link chorizo)
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 1/4 cup diced bell pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Salsa (your choice, for serving)
In a skillet over medium heat, add the chorizo and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
Add the diced onion and bell pepper, if using, and sauté until softened.
Meanwhile, in a bowl, whisk the eggs and season with salt and pepper. Pour the eggs into the skillet with the chorizo and vegetables, cooking until the eggs are fully set.
Warm the tortillas in a separate pan or microwave, then fill each tortilla with the chorizo and egg mixture. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with salsa on the side.
To make your breakfast tacos even more flavorful, consider adding spices such as cumin or paprika to the egg mixture for an extra kick.
If you prefer a milder taste, use less chorizo or choose a mild variety. Additionally, letting your tortillas warm up slightly before filling them can add a delightful softness that makes them easier to fold and enjoy.
Dessert Tacos With Cinnamon Apples

Dessert tacos are a delightful way to indulge your sweet tooth while enjoying the fun shape of traditional tacos. These particular dessert tacos feature cinnamon apples, bringing a warm, comforting flavor reminiscent of homemade apple pie. With a simple and quick preparation, you can create a delicious treat that will impress your family and friends at any gathering or simply satisfy your craving for something sweet after dinner.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. You can use store-bought taco shells or make your own with flour tortillas, which can be baked or fried to perfection. The cinnamon apple filling can also be adjusted based on the type of apples you prefer, making it a versatile dessert option that can adapt to different tastes and seasonal ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 4 flour tortillas
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- Whipped cream or ice cream, for serving
Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon, stirring to combine. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the apples soften and the mixture is bubbly.
In a separate pan, lightly toast the tortillas; you can either fry them in a bit of butter until golden and crispy or warm them in the oven. Once everything is ready, fill each tortilla with the cooked cinnamon apples, top with walnuts if desired, and serve with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream.
To elevate your dessert tacos, consider adding a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top just before serving. For an extra layer of flavor, you can also try experimenting with spices—adding nutmeg or allspice can create a unique touch.
Remember to balance the sweetness of the filling with the creaminess of the whipped cream or ice cream for a wonderfully satisfying dessert experience.