The Original Monster Taco from Jack in the Box features a crunchy taco shell filled with seasoned ground beef, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, delivering a bold and satisfying flavor with every bite.
Equipments
- Fryer
- Tongs
- Tray or basket (for draining)
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or scoop (for ground beef)
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Cheese grater (if shredding cheese from block)
- Ladle or spatula
- Serving plate
- Food-safe gloves
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 10 crunchy taco shells
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 2 medium tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Ground beef should be cooked thoroughly and mixed well with taco seasoning to ensure consistent flavor throughout the filling. Use fresh, crisp lettuce and ripe tomatoes for the best texture and taste in your taco. When shredding cheddar cheese from a block, make sure to grate it finely to mimic the original texture. You can fry the taco shells yourself using vegetable oil to achieve the perfect crunch, but monitor the temperature to avoid burning. Your efforts in assembling these ingredients carefully will bring you closer to enjoying a copycat version of the Original Monster Taco from Jack in the Box.
Instructions
- Preheat fryer with vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown ground beef in a mixing bowl or pan using ladle or spatula.
- Add taco seasoning to the cooked beef and mix well.
- Slice tomatoes on cutting board with knife; dice them.
- Shred cheddar cheese with cheese grater (if using a block).
- Shred lettuce (if not pre-shredded).
- Fry taco shells in fryer until crispy; remove with tongs.
- Drain fried taco shells on tray or basket.
- Wear food-safe gloves.
- Spoon seasoned ground beef into each taco shell.
- Top each taco with shredded lettuce.
- Add diced tomatoes over lettuce.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Place finished Monster Tacos on serving plate.
Substitution
The Original Monster Taco from Jack in the Box copycat recipe calls for crunchy taco shells, but if you don't have access to pre-made shells, you can make your own by frying small corn tortillas until crisp. Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version without sacrificing flavor. Use pre-shredded lettuce and cheese to save prep time, but freshly shredded cheese enhances the texture and taste. When frying shells, maintain oil temperature around 350degF to ensure even crisping and prevent sogginess. You can customize the filling with your preferred vegetables or cheese types to suit your taste preferences.
Tips
Make sure to monitor the oil temperature closely when frying taco shells, maintaining around 350degF (175degC) to achieve a perfectly crispy texture without burning. Drain the fried shells thoroughly on a tray or basket to avoid sogginess and maintain crunchiness. When seasoning and mixing the ground beef, ensure it's fully cooked before adding taco seasoning to enhance flavor and ensure even coating. Use food-safe gloves during assembly to keep your Monster Tacos hygienic and ready to serve.
Nutritions
The Original Monster Taco from Jack in the Box provides a balanced combination of protein, fiber, and fats. Each taco contains seasoned ground beef, offering a high protein content necessary for muscle repair and energy. The shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes add dietary fiber and essential vitamins like vitamin C and A, promoting your digestive health. Topping with shredded cheddar cheese contributes calcium and healthy fats to complete the nutritional profile.
Storage
Store leftover Monster Tacos in an airtight container to maintain freshness, separating components like shells and toppings if possible to avoid sogginess. Keep the seasoned ground beef refrigerated at or below 40degF (4degC) and consume within 3-4 days for optimal safety. To preserve the best texture, reheat beef separately and assemble tacos just before eating.
Variation or Alternatives
You can switch out the ground beef for cooked shredded chicken or turkey to create a leaner protein option. Instead of frying the taco shells, bake them in the oven at 375degF (190degC) for 5-7 minutes to achieve a crisp texture with less oil. For a twist on the cheese, try using a Mexican blend or crumbled queso fresco for a different flavor profile. Adding a dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top can enhance the creaminess and complement the bold seasoning.
Allergies
The Original Monster Taco contains common allergens such as dairy from the shredded cheddar cheese and potential gluten if the taco shells are made from wheat flour. Ground beef is generally safe for most people, but the taco seasoning packet may contain soy, gluten, or other allergens, depending on the brand. Be sure to check ingredient labels carefully to ensure the food is safe for your specific allergy needs.
Why this recipe?
The Original Monster Taco menu from Jack in the Box is loved for its bold flavors, combining seasoned beef, crunchy taco shells, and melted cheese that create a satisfying taste experience. You can appreciate the unique blend of classic Tex-Mex elements with a fast-food twist that appeals to fans of both spicy and savory dishes. Crafting a copycat version allows you to recreate this iconic meal with fresh ingredients tailored to your preference, ensuring optimal freshness and customization. Trying the recipe at home gives you control over quality and portion, making it a worthwhile culinary project for taco enthusiasts.