Indian Fry Bread Tacos

Indian Fry Bread Tacos combine the crisp, golden goodness of fry bread with the deliciousness of seasoned ground beef and fresh taco toppings. A fusion of Native American comfort food and classic taco night, these tacos are perfect for any gathering, especially when you’re craving something unique and satisfying. They’re crispy, hearty, and full of flavor, making them an instant crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Indian Fry Bread Tacos offer a delicious twist on traditional tacos by using warm, crispy fry bread as the base. The rich, seasoned ground beef pairs beautifully with fresh, crisp toppings and melted cheese, creating a hearty and flavorful dish. This recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile—you can load up the toppings however you like! It’s a fun fusion of comfort food and taco night that everyone in the family will enjoy.

Ingredients

Fry Bread:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• 1 cup warm water

• Vegetable oil for frying

Beef Topping:

• 1 pound lean ground beef

• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning

• ¼ cup warm water

Pinto Beans (Optional):

• 2 cans (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• ½ teaspoon cumin

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon onion powder

Toppings:

• Crisp lettuce, chopped

• Red tomatoes, diced

• Shredded cheddar cheese

• Sour cream

• Fresh cilantro, finely chopped

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Make the Fry Bread: In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the warm water, stirring until a soft dough forms. Cover with a towel and let rest for 10 minutes.

2. Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning and warm water, then let it simmer for 5 minutes, until the sauce thickens.

3. Prepare the Beans (Optional): Heat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the drained pinto beans along with cumin, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Cook on low for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

4. Fry the Bread: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Divide the rested dough into 4 equal pieces and shape each into a round about ½ inch thick. Fry each piece for 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

5. Assemble the Tacos: Place each warm fry bread on a plate. Top with lettuce, seasoned beef, diced tomatoes, shredded cheddar, and a dollop of sour cream. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the beef and top the fry bread with seasoned sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini. Add beans for extra protein.

• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the toppings for a spicy twist.

• Cheese Sauce: For extra cheesy goodness, melt some cheddar cheese into a creamy sauce and drizzle over the taco for a rich texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftover fry bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in a hot skillet for a couple of minutes to restore its crispiness.

• Store any leftover beef or beans in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

FAQs

Can I make the fry bread in advance?

Fry bread is best enjoyed fresh, but you can make it a day ahead and reheat it in a skillet for a few minutes to restore its crispiness.

Is it possible to make the beef topping ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the beef mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it before serving.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef for a lighter option.

What if I don’t have pinto beans?

You can substitute the pinto beans with black beans, refried beans, or any beans of your choice.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add chili powder to the beef mixture or top your tacos with fresh jalapeños or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce.

Can I bake the fry bread instead of frying it?

Fry bread is traditionally deep-fried for a crispy texture, but you can bake it at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until golden and crisp, though it may not be as flaky.

Can I freeze the fry bread?

Yes, you can freeze the fry bread for up to a month. To reheat, warm it in a skillet or oven to get the crispiness back.

What other toppings can I use for these tacos?

Feel free to get creative with toppings like guacamole, diced onions, sliced olives, or shredded lettuce. You can even try a different cheese such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a unique flavor.

How do I keep the fry bread crispy after cooking?

Drain the fry bread on paper towels immediately after frying to remove excess oil, and serve it promptly to maintain its crispy texture.

Can I make the taco seasoning from scratch?

Absolutely! A mix of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper will create a homemade taco seasoning.

Conclusion

Indian Fry Bread Tacos are a flavorful fusion of Native American fry bread and classic taco night. The crispy, golden fry bread topped with savory seasoned beef, fresh vegetables, and melted cheese creates a satisfying meal everyone will love. Easy to make, customizable, and perfect for sharing, this dish will quickly become a new favorite in your dinner rotation!