Taco Fries

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

1 packet McCormick mild taco seasoning
4-6 tortillas, cut into fry-like strips (about 1-inch wide)

Oil for frying tortilla pieces (vegetable oil or canola oil works well)
1 lb deer burger (or any ground meat like beef, turkey, or chicken)
Toppings of your choice (e.g., shredded cheese, lettuce, sour cream, salsa, guacamole, diced tomatoes, jalapeños)

Instructions:

1. Make the Taco Fries:

Cut the tortillas into strips, about 1 inch wide, to resemble fries.
Heat enough oil in a large pan or deep fryer to fully fry the tortilla strips. You want the oil to be hot, around 350°F (175°C).
Once the oil is ready, fry the tortilla strips in batches, cooking them for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

2. Cook the Ground Meat:

While the tortilla fries are cooling, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the deer burger (or preferred ground meat) to the pan and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon.
Once the meat is cooked, drain any excess fat, then stir in the McCormick taco seasoning and follow the package instructions (usually adding a bit of water to the mixture and simmering for a few minutes).

3. Assemble the Taco Fries:

In a large plate or shallow dish, arrange the fried tortilla strips as a base.

Spoon the seasoned ground meat evenly over the tortilla fries.
Top with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, lettuce, sour cream, salsa, guacamole, diced tomatoes, and jalapeños.

4. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve immediately while the fries are crispy and the toppings are fresh and cool. Enjoy your homemade taco fries with your family!

Q & A:

Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: Yes, you can use any ground meat you like, including beef, turkey, chicken, or even a meat substitute if you’re vegetarian or vegan.

Q: Can I bake the tortilla fries instead of frying them?
A: Absolutely! You can bake the tortilla strips at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are crispy and golden. This is a healthier alternative to frying.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: The tortilla fries are best when freshly made and crispy. However, you can cook the meat mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before assembling the taco fries.

Benefits:

Quick and Easy: This recipe is super fast to prepare, especially if you have tortillas and ground meat on hand.
Customizable: Add any toppings you love, from cheese to guacamole, or even hot sauce for some heat.
Kid-friendly: These taco fries are fun to eat, and the mild seasoning makes them great for younger taste buds.

Budget-friendly: Using tortillas and ground meat makes this an affordable meal option.

These Taco Fries are an awesome twist on regular nachos and perfect for a casual family meal or a fun party snack. They’re customizable, delicious, and easy to make, whether you’re using ground deer meat or any other preferred protein! 🌮🍟