Wrangler Taco from Torchy's Tacos features seasoned ground beef, shredded cheddar cheese, fresh pico de gallo, and crispy fried jalapenos nestled in a warm, soft corn tortilla, delivering a bold and flavorful Tex-Mex experience with a satisfying crunch.
Equipments
- Skillet or frying pan
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Cheese grater
- Mixing bowl
- Slotted spoon
- Tongs
- Fryer or deep saucepan (for frying jalapenos)
- Paper towels (for draining fried jalapenos)
- Plate or tray
- Tortilla warmer or microwave
- Spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup pico de gallo
- 2 fresh jalapenos
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 8 corn tortillas
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
Ground beef seasoned with a tablespoon of taco seasoning forms the savory base of your Wrangler Taco from Torchy's Tacos. Use fresh jalapenos for frying to achieve the signature crispy texture, coating them with a mix of flour, milk, egg, and breadcrumbs before frying in vegetable oil. Fresh pico de gallo adds a burst of brightness, while shredded cheddar cheese provides a melty, rich contrast. Ensure your corn tortillas are warmed properly to enhance the overall soft and warm bite. This copycat menu allows you to recreate the bold, Tex-Mex flavors and satisfying crunch of Torchy's Wrangler Taco at home.
Instructions
- Slice jalapenos into rings.
- Set up a breading station with separate bowls for flour, beaten egg mixed with milk, and breadcrumbs.
- Dredge jalapeno rings in flour, dip in egg mixture, then coat in breadcrumbs.
- Heat vegetable oil in fryer or deep saucepan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry breaded jalapeno rings until golden brown; remove and drain on paper towels.
- Heat skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Add ground beef to skillet; cook and crumble until browned.
- Add taco seasoning, salt, and pepper to beef, stirring to combine; cook until fully seasoned.
- Warm corn tortillas using a tortilla warmer or microwave.
- Grate cheddar cheese.
- Assemble tacos: Place seasoned beef in each tortilla.
- Top each taco with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Add a spoonful of pico de gallo.
- Add crispy fried jalapenos on top.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Wrangler Taco from Torchy's Tacos copycat menu combines seasoned ground beef, cheddar cheese, fresh pico de gallo, and crispy fried jalapenos in a soft corn tortilla, creating an authentic Tex-Mex flavor with crunchy texture. You can substitute jalapenos with poblano peppers if you prefer a milder heat or opt for store-bought fried jalapeno chips to save frying time. Ground turkey or plant-based crumbles can replace ground beef for a leaner or vegetarian option. Use pre-shredded cheese to speed up prep time while maintaining flavor. Ensure your oil is at the right temperature before frying jalapenos to achieve perfect crispiness without greasiness.
Tips
Ensure the oil maintains a steady temperature of 350degF (175degC) when frying jalapeno rings to achieve a crispy, golden coating without absorbing excess oil. Season the ground beef thoroughly with taco seasoning, salt, and pepper to infuse the meat with authentic Tex-Mex flavors. Use a tortilla warmer or microwave briefly to keep corn tortillas soft and pliable, preventing them from cracking during assembly. When you assemble your Wrangler Taco, layering warm beef, melted cheddar cheese, fresh pico de gallo, and crispy jalapenos maximizes flavor and texture in every bite.
Nutritions
The Wrangler Taco from Torchy's Tacos provides a balanced mix of protein, fats, and carbohydrates, mainly sourced from the seasoned ground beef, cheddar cheese, and corn tortillas. Each taco delivers essential nutrients like calcium from the cheese and vitamin C from the fresh pico de gallo and jalapenos. The crispy fried jalapenos add flavor and texture but also increase the calorie and fat content due to the frying process in vegetable oil. To manage your intake, consider adjusting portion sizes or opting for baked jalapenos to reduce added fats.
Storage
Store leftover seasoned ground beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Keep shredded cheddar cheese in a sealed plastic bag or container, refrigerated to prevent moisture buildup. For best texture, store fried jalapenos separately in a paper towel-lined container to absorb excess oil and avoid sogginess before reheating.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute ground beef with shredded chicken or seasoned black beans for a different protein source. Swap cheddar cheese for pepper jack or a Mexican blend to enhance flavor complexity. Instead of frying jalapenos, try pickling them for a tangy crunch or roasting slices to add smoky depth. Using soft flour tortillas can also provide a different texture while maintaining the taco's authentic taste profile.
Allergies
Your Wrangler Taco from Torchy's Tacos contains common allergens such as dairy from shredded cheddar cheese and milk, and eggs used in the batter for crispy fried jalapenos. The presence of gluten is possible in the breadcrumbs and all-purpose flour coating the jalapenos. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should exercise caution or seek alternatives to avoid allergic reactions.
Why this recipe?
Wrangler Taco from Torchy's Tacos features tender smoked beef brisket paired with crunchy fried jalapenos, sharp cheddar cheese, and Tangy BBQ sauce, creating a bold and satisfying flavor profile. The combination of smoky, spicy, and savory elements makes it a standout option for taco enthusiasts seeking a hearty and flavorful meal. You'll appreciate how easy it is to replicate this fusion of textures and tastes at home, ensuring a deliciously authentic experience without the restaurant price. Trying to make the Wrangler Taco copycat allows you to customize spice levels and ingredients while enjoying a fan-favorite dish anytime.