Have leftover ingredients from taco night? Transform them into this delicious Taco Bowl with Air-Fried Tortilla Chips! It’s a quick, satisfying way to reduce food waste while enjoying all the flavors you love in a fresh, new format. With crispy homemade tortilla chips, seasoned beef, and vibrant toppings, this taco bowl will become your go-to leftover makeover.
Why You’ll Love It:
Leftover Greatness: Turns taco night leftovers into a whole new meal.
Quick & Easy: Minimal prep time with maximum flavor.
Customizable: Add or swap toppings based on what’s in your fridge.
Balanced Meal: Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
Crispy Twist: Air-fried tortilla chips for the perfect crunch without deep frying.
Health Insights:
Lean Ground Beef: Provides high-quality protein and iron, essential for energy and muscle health.
Romaine Lettuce & Tomatoes: Add fiber, vitamins A and C, supporting immunity and digestion.
Cheddar Cheese: A source of calcium for strong bones.
Cilantro: Offers antioxidants and supports detoxification.
Air-Fried Tortilla Chips: A lighter alternative to traditional fried chips, reducing saturated fat.
Guacamole: Adds heart-healthy fats from avocados, supporting brain function.
Tips and Tricks to Elevate:
Spice It Up: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Add Fresh Zing: Squeeze lime juice over the bowl for a burst of freshness.
Roasted Veggies: Toss in some roasted bell peppers for extra flavor and fiber.
Flavorful Sour Cream: Mix sour cream with lime juice and taco seasoning for a zesty drizzle.
Meal Prep Friendly: Store each component separately and assemble just before eating for maximum freshness.
Cheese Upgrade: Use a sharp cheddar or a Mexican blend for a richer flavor.
Protein Boost: Top with a fried egg and/or black beans for extra protein.
Taco Bowl (made from Taco Night Leftovers)
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned, about five minutes.
Add the seasoning and the water. Stir to combine and cook for two to three more minutes, until the liquid evaporates, and the mixture thickened.
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Cut the corn tortillas into strips to create chips.
Lightly spray the tortilla strips with cooking oil and place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Air fry for six to eight minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the chips are crispy and golden brown. (You may need to do this in batches depending on your air fryer size.)
In bowls or containers with lids, layer the romaine lettuce, followed by the seasoned beef mixture.
Add the cheese, tomatoes, green onions, and cilantro. If desired, add sour cream and guacamole for extra creaminess and flavor. Top with the tortilla chips.
Enjoy!
Taco Bowl
30 minutes 5 servings
1 lb Lean Ground Beef
1 tbsp Taco Seasoning
1/3 cup Water
8 Corn Tortilla (small, warm)
4 leaves Romaine (large, thinly sliced)
4 ozs Cheddar Cheese (grated)
1 Tomato (large, diced)
2 stalks Green Onion (thinly sliced)
1/4 cup Cilantro (chopped)
1/2 cup Sour Cream (optional)
1/2 cup Guacamole (optional)
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned, about five minutes.
Add the taco seasoning and water. Stir to combine and cook for another two to three minutes, until the liquid evaporates, and the mixture thickens. Set aside.
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Cut the corn tortillas into strips to create chips.
Lightly spray the tortilla pieces with cooking oil and place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Air fry for six to eight minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the chips are crispy and golden brown. (You may need to do this in batches depending on your air fryer size.)
In bowls or containers with lids, layer the romaine lettuce, followed by the seasoned beef mixture.
Add the cheese, tomatoes, green onions, and cilantro. If desired, add sour cream and guacamole for extra creaminess and flavor. Top with the tortilla chips.
Enjoy!
Serving Size: One serving is equal to two tacos.
Storage: Keep all ingredients refrigerated separately. Refrigerate ground beef in an airtight container up to four days.
No Ground Beef: Use ground turkey, chicken, pork or lamb instead.
Vegan & Vegetarian: Use lentils, black beans, chickpeas or crumbled tofu instead of ground meat.
Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cheese. Omit the sour Cream.
NUTRITION (per serving)
Calories 518 kcal, Fat 31g, Carbs 34g, Fiber 4g, Sugar 1g, Protein 24g
DIY Recipes
Isabelle Bulota is a Registered Holistic Nutritionist, Recipe Developer, and Food Photographer, passionately navigates the challenges of motherhood with two vibrant teenagers. As the proud founder of Isabelle Bulota Family Nutrition Practitioner, she guides families on their journey through personalized nutrition counselling.
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