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Shredded Beef Tacos with Chipotle Sauce

Shredded Beef Tacos with Chipotle Sauce

Shredded Beef Tacos with Chipotle Sauce feature crispy, tender shredded beef fried to golden perfection, paired with a smoky, spicy chipotle sauce and fresh toppings for a balanced, flavorful taco experience. Perfect for quick dinners, meal prep, or gatherings, these tacos offer bold flavors, delightful textures, and versatility to suit various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups shredded beef (slow-cooked chuck or brisket, finely shredded)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or shortening (for frying)
  • 8 corn or flour tortillas (soft)

Chipotle Sauce

  • 23 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onions
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
  • Juice of 1 lime

Toppings & Garnishes

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheddar cheese (to taste)
  • Lime wedges (for serving)
  • Optional: diced onions, sliced avocado, pickled jalapeños

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Shredded Beef: Shred your cooked beef, preferably a tender roast like chuck or brisket, into thin but substantial strands to ensure they crisp well when fried.
  2. Make the Chipotle Sauce: Sauté finely chopped onions and minced garlic in a pan until fragrant. Blend these with chipotle peppers in adobo, lime juice, and chicken broth or water. Simmer the mixture until it thickens and develops rich, smoky flavors.
  3. Fry the Shredded Beef: Heat vegetable oil or shortening in a skillet over medium-high heat. Spread the shredded beef evenly and fry until edges turn golden and crispy, flipping as necessary to avoid burning. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
  4. Warm the Tortillas: While frying the beef, warm the tortillas on a dry skillet or flame for a few seconds each side until pliable and aromatic.
  5. Assemble the Tacos: Place crispy fried beef on warm tortillas. Drizzle generously with chipotle sauce, then top with chopped fresh cilantro, crumbled cheese, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Add optional garnishes as desired.

Notes

  • Use quality beef cuts like chuck roast for best tenderness and flavor.
  • Drain excess oil from fried beef using paper towels to prevent greasy tacos.
  • Chipotle sauce tastes even better if made a day ahead and refrigerated.
  • Fry shredded beef in batches to maintain consistent crispiness and avoid overcrowding the pan.
  • Add fresh lime juice just before serving to keep flavors bright and balanced.

Nutrition

Keywords: shredded beef tacos, chipotle sauce, crispy tacos, Mexican tacos, easy taco recipe, beef tacos