Navajo Tacos—also known as Indian Fry Bread Tacos—are a treasured recipe rooted in Native American cuisine. Made with soft, pillowy fry bread that’s lightly crispy on the outside and tender inside, this dish transforms into a taco lover’s dream when piled high with seasoned beef, beans, lettuce, cheese, and more.
Prefer sweet over savory? A simple dusting of powdered sugar and honey turns this fry bread into a dessert that’s just as craveable.
Whether you’re making a fun family dinner or hosting a hands-on taco night, this versatile recipe is always a hit.
Why I Love This Recipe
These fry bread tacos are:
- Crispy and golden on the outside, soft inside
- Customizable—build them sweet or savory
- Comfort food perfection for any season
- Surprisingly easy to make at home with pantry staples
They’re great for feeding a crowd and totally kid-friendly.
Ingredients
For the Fry Bread:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 4½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons softened butter or ghee
- 1¼ cups whole milk
- 3 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
Savory Toppings:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 recommended)
- 2 tablespoons steak fajita seasoning or taco seasoning
- 15 oz black beans, drained
- 2 cups iceberg lettuce, shredded
- 3 plum tomatoes, diced
- Sour cream
- Queso sauce or shredded cheese
Sweet Version:
- Honey
- Powdered sugar
Swaps and Notes
- Fry Bread Shortcut: Use store-bought pizza dough in a pinch—but fresh is best!
- Protein: Swap ground beef with ground turkey, shredded chicken, or seasoned lentils.
- Beans: Pinto or refried beans work great too.
- Sweet toppings: Try cinnamon sugar or Nutella for a dessert version.
Step-by-Step Instructions
🔹 Step 1: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, mix:
- Flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Softened butter or ghee
Rub the butter into the dry ingredients until crumbly. Make a well in the center and pour in milk.
Knead gently until a soft dough forms (don’t overwork!). Cover with a towel and let rest for 15 minutes.
🔹 Step 2: Roll and Shape
On a floured surface, roll the dough into a log. Divide into 12 equal pieces and roll each into a ball.
Flatten each ball into a 6-inch circle about ¼ inch thick. Prick with a fork to prevent puffing.
🔹 Step 3: Fry the Bread
Heat oil in a large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
Fry each dough circle for 30 seconds on the first side, flip, then fold into a taco shell shape using tongs and continue frying until golden brown.
Drain on paper towels.
🔹 Step 4: Prepare the Savory Toppings
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add seasoning and a splash of water. Simmer 2–3 minutes. Warm the black beans separately.
Chop lettuce, tomatoes, and gather your toppings.
🔹 Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos
For savory tacos:
- Fill fry bread with beef, beans, lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, and cheese.
For sweet versions:
- Drizzle with honey
- Dust with powdered sugar
- Serve warm
Tips for Success
- Let the dough rest: This helps hydrate the flour and makes for a more tender fry bread.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches so the oil temperature stays steady.
- Keep warm: Hold fried bread in a 200°F oven while you work through the batch.
- Shape as you go: Flatten the next dough ball while one is frying.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Serve your Navajo Tacos with:
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas – to feed a hungry group
- Dorito Casserole – another bold, cheesy bite
- Easy Turkey Wings – for a comfort food combo
- Blueberry Lemonade – for a tart and refreshing contrast
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs – a decadent dessert pairing
Storage and Leftovers
- Fry Bread: Best fresh, but can be stored in foil or a container for 1–2 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven.
- Freezer: Wrap cooled fry bread in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet or 350°F oven until crisped.
More Recipes You’ll Love
Love big flavor and bold bites? Try these next:
Final Thoughts
These Navajo Tacos (Indian Fry Bread) are crispy, fluffy, and totally customizable—perfect for savory taco lovers and sweet tooths alike. Whether you keep it classic with beef and beans or go dessert-style with honey and sugar, one thing’s for sure: they’ll disappear fast.
Tried it? Tag @chefmaniac and show off your fry bread game—we want to see your taco masterpieces! 🌮🔥🍯
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