Air Fryer Beef Tacos
Air Fryer Beef Tacos are made with seasoned ground beef, hard taco shells, and shredded cheddar; air fry at 400°F for 12 minutes until shells are crispy and cheese is melted.
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Method
- 1
Brown ground beef in a skillet. Drain fat. Add all seasonings and 1/4 cup water. Simmer 5 minutes.
- 2
Stand taco shells upright in air fryer basket. Spoon seasoned beef into each shell.
- 3
Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- 4
Air fry at 400°F for 3-4 minutes until shells are crispy and cheese is melted.
- 5
Top with lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, salsa, and jalapeños.
Pro tip. Standing the shells upright keeps them from falling over. If they won't stay, crumple small balls of foil between them for support. The air fryer makes store-bought shells taste freshly fried.
Why the air fryer wins here
- Ready in 12 minutes. The same dish takes about 22 in a conventional oven, plus preheating.
- Fast-moving hot air browns the outside before the inside dries out, so you get color without babysitting.
- Cleanup is a basket, not a sheet pan and a splattered stovetop.
Storing and reheating
Refrigerate perishable leftovers within 2 hours, or within 1 hour above 90°F. Reheat leftovers to 165°F (74°C) throughout, measured with a food thermometer. USDA leftover safety guidance.
Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes rather than the microwave so the outside crisps back up. See the reheat guide for exact times by food.
Get the air fryer cheat sheet
A one-page chart of everyday cooking times and temperatures. Print it, stick it on the fridge.
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