Air Fryer Taco Shells: Quick, Crunchy, And Easy!

Taco night just got a whole lot easier! You can make crispy, delicious taco shells in minutes using your air fryer. This super-simple method is healthier than frying, and it's a great way to heat up shells without the fuss and mess of hot oil in a skillet. You can even make a whole batch of shells for your next taco party.

Air fryer taco shells are healthier than those cooked in oil

Air fryers have become a popular alternative to traditional deep frying, especially for taco shells. Air-fried taco shells are considered healthier than their oil-fried counterparts due to the reduced amount of oil used in the cooking process.

Traditionally, taco shells are fried in oil, which can make them heavy and greasy. In contrast, air fryers use hot air circulation to create a crispy exterior while minimising the amount of oil needed. This results in a healthier dish with a lower calorie count. Air-fried taco shells have a similar texture and taste to deep-fried shells but with significantly less oil, making them a lighter and more nutritious option.

The type of air fryer and tortilla used can impact the cooking time, but on average, it takes around 5-7 minutes to cook taco shells in an air fryer. Preheating the air fryer for a few minutes before adding the tortillas is recommended to achieve a crispier texture and evenly cooked shells. Corn tortillas are the traditional choice for taco shells as they have a slightly nutty flavour and are sturdy enough to hold the filling without breaking. However, flour tortillas can also be used if preferred.

When preparing taco shells in an air fryer, it is important to ensure that the shells are not overcrowded in the air fryer basket to avoid uneven cooking. Lightly brushing the tortillas with oil, such as avocado oil or vegetable oil, can enhance crispiness and add a subtle richness. For added flavour, the tortillas can be seasoned with spices such as chilli powder, cumin, or garlic powder before placing them in the air fryer.

Overall, air fryer taco shells offer a healthier alternative to traditional oil-fried shells without compromising on taste or texture. With reduced oil absorption and faster cooking times, air fryers provide a convenient and nutritious option for taco lovers.

You can make crispy shells without toppings in 4 minutes

Yes, you can cook crispy taco shells in an air fryer in just 4 minutes! This is a super easy and quick recipe for taco night or a weeknight dinner.

First, you'll want to preheat your air fryer to 300°F for 3 minutes. Then, prepare your taco shells. You can use corn or flour tortillas, depending on your preference. If you're using corn tortillas, you can simply spray the top and bottom of each shell with cooking spray or lightly brush them with oil. If you're using flour tortillas, you'll need to drape the shells over a taco mold or create small tents with aluminum foil to lay the tortillas over as they cook.

Once your shells are prepared, place them in the air fryer basket. If you're using a mold, place the mold in the basket and stack the shells on top. If you're using aluminum foil, place the foil in the basket first and then stack the shells on top. Make sure there is a little spacing between each shell. You can also line your basket with foil and then place the shells directly on top if you don't want them to take on a taco shape. Cover the shells with a lid or more foil to prevent them from touching the heating element, which can cause scorch marks.

Finally, air fry your shells at 360°F-400°F for 4-6 minutes, checking on them after 2 minutes to ensure they don't shift and burn. Your shells are ready when they are golden and crisp. You can then fill them with your favorite toppings, such as seasoned ground beef, black beans, shredded chicken, salsa, avocado, or cheese.

If you want to add your toppings before cooking, you can do so, but be aware that this is a controversial method. Some people prefer to add all their ingredients, including lettuce, before air frying, while others prefer to add their toppings after. If you do add your toppings before cooking, simply place the filled tacos in the air fryer basket and cook at 350°F-375°F for 5-10 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

And that's it! You now have delicious, crispy taco shells ready to enjoy.

Corn or flour tortillas can be used

Spraying the tortillas with cooking spray or a light coat of grapeseed oil is recommended to ensure even cooking and crispiness. The air fryer should be preheated to 350-400°F, and the tortillas should be cooked for 4-6 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. It is important to keep an eye on the tortillas during cooking, as they can shift in the air fryer and burn.

The tortillas can be filled with your desired toppings before or after cooking in the air fryer. If filled before cooking, the tacos will come out cheesy and toasted. If filled after, the tortillas will be crispier, and the toppings will remain fresh and warm. Popular toppings include meat, cheese, lettuce, beans, salsa, avocado, and hot sauce.

Air-fried taco shells are a quick, easy, and healthy way to enjoy tacos, and they can be made in large batches for a fun and interactive taco night with family and friends.

Fillings can be added before or after cooking

There are a variety of methods to prepare taco fillings and shells in an air fryer. The fillings can be added before or after cooking the shells, depending on your preference.

If you want to add the fillings before cooking, you can fill the taco shells with your desired fillings such as meat, cheese, lettuce, beans, and other toppings. Then, spray the tops with cooking spray or brush the shells lightly with oil on both sides. Place the filled tacos in the air fryer basket, making sure they are secure and do not touch the heating element to avoid scorch marks. Set the air fryer to 350-375°F and cook for 4-7 minutes, or until the tacos are crispy and golden brown.

On the other hand, if you prefer to add the fillings after cooking the shells, you can simply heat up the empty shells in the air fryer. Place the shells in the air fryer basket, stacking them with a little spacing in between. Cover the basket with a lid or aluminum foil to prevent scorching. Set the air fryer to 360-400°F and cook for 4-6 minutes, or until the shells are crispy and golden. Once they are done, remove them from the air fryer and fill them with your desired toppings.

Some people prefer to add all the ingredients, including lettuce, before placing the tacos in the air fryer to get a cheesy and toasted texture. However, others may choose to add the toppings after heating the shells, especially if they want to avoid wilting the lettuce. It is recommended to serve the tacos warm and fresh, especially if they are filled with toppings, as they are best enjoyed crispy and crunchy.

Additionally, you can make your own taco shells from scratch by using corn or flour tortillas. Spray both sides of the tortillas with cooking spray or brush them lightly with oil. Drape the tortillas over a taco mold or create small tents with aluminum foil to lay the tortillas over as they cook. Place them in the air fryer and cook at 400°F for 4-6 minutes until they are golden and crisp. You can also place the tortillas directly on the air fryer racks, hanging them down to create a space for your fillings.

Store in an airtight container for 2-3 days

Yes, you can cook taco shells in an air fryer. This method of cooking your taco shells is quick and easy, and the results are delicious. But what about storing your shells?

If you're not planning on eating your tacos straight away, or if you've made a large batch, it's important to store your shells properly to keep them fresh and crispy. The best way to do this is to use an airtight container. This will keep the shells from going soft and losing their shape.

Airtight containers are a great way to keep your food fresh. They come in various sizes, so you can choose one that fits your needs. You could use a large container if you've made a big batch, or a smaller one if you just have a few left over.

Your shells should keep for 2-3 days in an airtight container. This gives you plenty of time to enjoy your tacos without worrying about the shells going stale. Just be sure to keep them in a cool, dry place, and avoid exposing them to moisture, which could make them soggy.

So, if you're planning on making tacos, don't forget to grab an airtight container to keep your shells fresh and tasty!

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