National Crunchy Taco Day 🌮🔥 — Crispy, Flavor-Packed Fiesta Favorite

National Crunchy Taco Day is celebrated on March 21st every year, and it's a day to honor one of America's favorite fast food items. Crunchy tacos are a classic Tex-Mex dish that has become a staple in many people's diets, and this holiday gives us a chance to appreciate the unique texture and flavor of this beloved food.

Crunchy tacos are typically made by filling a hard corn tortilla shell with seasoned ground beef, lettuce, cheese, and sometimes other toppings like salsa, sour cream, and guacamole. The crispy shell gives the taco a satisfying crunch that sets it apart from other types of tacos, and it's a texture that many people find irresistible.

The history of crunchy tacos can be traced back to the early 20th century.
When Mexican immigrants began opening restaurants and food stands in the southwestern United States. These early entrepreneurs created a fusion of Mexican and American cuisine that eventually led to the development of Tex-Mex food, including the crunchy taco. Today, crunchy tacos are a popular menu item at fast food chains and casual dining restaurants across the country.

To celebrate National Crunchy Taco Day, people all over the country enjoy this delicious food in a variety of ways. Some people like to visit their favorite fast food chain and order a classic crunchy taco, while others prefer to make their own tacos at home with fresh ingredients and their own unique twist. Some restaurants and food trucks even offer special deals and promotions on crunchy tacos on this holiday, making it a great opportunity to indulge in this tasty treat.

National Crunchy Taco Day! March 21st 2022

There are many different ways to enjoy crunchy tacos, and people have developed their own favorite variations over the years. Some people like to add hot sauce or other spicy toppings to give their tacos a little extra kick, while others prefer to load up their tacos with fresh vegetables like tomatoes, onions, and jalapeños. No matter how you choose to enjoy your crunchy tacos, National Crunchy Taco Day is a day we can all enjoy!

 

Crispy Beef & Cheese Crunchy Tacos 🌮🔥

Golden shells, zesty seasoned beef, and all the fixings — the ultimate fiesta classic.

Prep: 15 mins Cook: 10 mins Total: 25 mins Yield: 10–12 tacos

Occasion: National Crunchy Taco Day (March 21)

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Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or turkey/plant-based crumbles)
• 2 tbsp taco seasoning (or chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic, oregano, salt)
• 1/2 cup water
• 10–12 crunchy corn taco shells
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar/Monterey Jack)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded lettuce
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/3 cup diced onion (optional)
• 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)
• Sour cream & salsa, to serve

Instructions

1. Brown the beef: Cook the beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up until browned; drain excess fat.
2. Season: Stir in taco seasoning and water; simmer 2–3 minutes until saucy.
3. Crisp shells: Warm taco shells on a baking sheet at 350°F/175°C for 4–5 minutes to refresh the crunch.
4. Assemble: Fill shells with beef, then cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, onion, and jalapeños.
5. Finish: Add salsa and a dot of sour cream. Serve immediately while shells are still ultra-crispy.

Pro tip: Sprinkle a little cheese in the bottom of each warm shell before beef — it creates a melty “moisture barrier” that protects the crunch.

❓ National Crunchy Taco Day FAQ

How do I keep shells from cracking when filling?
Warm them in the oven first and add a little cheese to the base so it melts and reinforces the shell.

Best meat swaps?
Ground turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or well-seasoned lentil/walnut crumbles for a hearty vegetarian option.

How do I make them ahead for a party?
Prep the beef and toppings in advance; warm shells last. Let guests build at a taco bar so the shells stay crisp.

Gluten-free?
Most corn shells are naturally gluten-free — always check labels, and use gluten-free seasoning.

Spice level tips?
Keep base mild; offer hot sauce, pickled jalapeños, and spicy salsa on the side so everyone can dial it up.