Loaded Tiny Tacos from Jack in the Box feature crispy, bite-sized taco shells filled with seasoned ground beef, shredded cheddar cheese, and a zesty blend of spices, topped with fresh diced onions and a drizzle of tangy taco sauce for a bold and flavorful snack.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Fry basket
- Tongs
- Mixing bowl
- Cheese grater
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Squeeze bottle (for taco sauce)
- Spoon or scoop
- Sheet pan or tray
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 24 mini taco shells
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup taco sauce
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Use fresh ground beef with a fat content around 80% for optimal flavor and juiciness in your loaded tiny tacos. Ensure taco seasoning is evenly mixed into the meat to create a consistent and bold taste throughout each taco. Choose mini taco shells that are sturdy enough to hold the filling without breaking during frying. Shredded cheddar cheese should be finely grated to melt quickly, enhancing the texture and taste. Your Loaded Tiny Tacos from Jack in the Box copycat menu will deliver crispy, zesty bites with every crunch, replicating the popular snack's authentic flavor.
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in a skillet; drain excess fat.
- Stir in taco seasoning and mix well.
- Place mini taco shells on a tray or sheet pan.
- Scoop seasoned beef evenly into each mini taco shell.
- Preheat deep fryer to 350°F (175°C) and fill with vegetable oil.
- Carefully place filled mini taco shells into fry basket.
- Fry tacos for 2–3 minutes, or until shells are golden and crispy.
- Use tongs to remove tacos and drain on a tray lined with paper towels.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over each taco.
- Top with diced onions.
- Drizzle taco sauce from squeeze bottle over tacos.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Loaded Tiny Tacos from Jack in the Box can be recreated at home using mini taco shells filled with seasoned ground beef, shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, and taco sauce. If you don't have mini taco shells, small corn tortillas can be cut and shaped before frying for a similar texture. Vegetable oil is ideal for deep frying to achieve crispy shells, but you can bake the shells for a healthier alternative. Use pre-shredded cheese to save time, but freshly grated cheddar offers better melt and flavor. Your taco sauce can be adjusted with extra lime juice or hot sauce to match your preferred level of tanginess and heat.
Tips
Make sure to preheat your deep fryer to 350degF (175degC) before frying to ensure the mini taco shells become perfectly crispy without absorbing excess oil. When browning the ground beef, drain the fat thoroughly to prevent greasy tacos and allow the seasoning to stick better. Use a spoon or scoop to distribute the beef evenly into each shell, avoiding overfilling that could cause spills during frying. After frying, drain the tacos on paper towels to remove excess oil, then add your cheese, onions, and sauce promptly for the best flavor and texture--your loaded tiny tacos are best enjoyed fresh and hot.
Nutritions
Loaded Tiny Tacos from Jack in the Box provide a balanced combination of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, primarily from seasoned ground beef, cheddar cheese, and mini taco shells. A serving typically contains about 15-18 grams of protein, supporting muscle maintenance and satiety. The dish is high in saturated fat due to deep frying and cheese, which may impact heart health if consumed frequently. You should enjoy these tacos as an occasional indulgence within a varied diet to maintain optimal nutrition.
Storage
Store leftover Loaded Tiny Tacos in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. Refrigerate promptly and consume within 2 days to ensure optimal flavor and safety. To reheat, use an oven or air fryer at 350degF (175degC) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness without compromising your tacos' texture.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken as a leaner protein option that still absorbs flavorful taco seasoning. Try adding finely chopped jalapenos or a pinch of smoked paprika to the beef mixture for an extra kick and deeper flavor profile. Instead of deep-frying, bake the mini taco shells at 400degF (200degC) for about 8 minutes to achieve a crispy texture with less oil. Top your tacos with fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for added freshness and creaminess.
Allergies
Loaded Tiny Tacos from Jack in the Box contain common allergens such as dairy from shredded cheddar cheese and potential gluten in the mini taco shells. The taco seasoning may also include allergenic spices or additives, so checking the ingredient list carefully is important. If you have allergies to dairy, gluten, or certain spices, take caution before consuming this snack.
Why this recipe?
Loaded Tiny Tacos from Jack in the Box are popular due to their crispy shells filled with seasoned ground beef, topped with melted cheese, lettuce, and creamy sauce, offering a flavorful bite-sized experience. The balance of textures and bold flavors makes these tacos a favorite for quick, satisfying snacks or meals. Making a copycat version lets you customize ingredients to match your taste and dietary preferences while enjoying the authentic taste at home. Your ability to recreate this indulgent treat allows for convenience and cost savings without compromising on the deliciousness.