There’s something incredibly satisfying about making your own Navajo tacos at home. When the air is filled with the warm, enticing scent of golden fry bread bubbling away in hot oil, you know a family favorite is on the way. I discovered this easy recipe on a busy weeknight when I wanted to break free from the cycle of takeout. With just four simple ingredients, I managed to whip up a batch of crispy fry bread that transformed into the most delightful taco base, loaded with savory toppings of my choice.

Perfect for taco night, these Homemade Navajo Tacos are not only fun to make but also a hit with everyone around the table. The puffed, crunchy bread provides a satisfying contrast to the fresh ingredients piled high on top. So, whether you’re looking to impress at your next dinner gathering or simply want to spice up your weeknight meals, this recipe promises warmth, flavor, and a little taste of tradition right in your kitchen. Let’s dive into this culinary journey!

Why is Navajo Taco a Must-Try Recipe?

Crispy, Golden Perfection: The easy-to-make fry bread transforms simple ingredients into a delightful snack or meal.
Family-Friendly Fun: Perfect for cooking together, this recipe turns dinner into a bonding experience for kids and adults alike.
Quick & Simple: Utilizing just four ingredients, you’ll have this dish ready in no time, making it a lifesaver for busy nights.
Endless Customization: From savory chili beans to fresh veggies, the topping options are as diverse as your cravings.
A Taste of Tradition: Dive into a delicious piece of Native American culture with every bite, blending history with your personal touch. Consider pairing your meal with a side of Mexican rice for added flair!

Navajo Taco Ingredients

• For the Fry Bread

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the dough; for a gluten-free version, substitute this with gluten-free flour.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent, giving the fry bread its distinctive puffiness.
Salt – Enhances the flavor of the bread, making every bite delicious.
Hot Water – Binds the ingredients, ensuring a sticky dough that’s easy to manage.
Vegetable Oil – Essential for frying; olive oil can be used for added flavor, just keep an eye on the frying temperature.

• For the Toppings (optional)

Chili Beans – A hearty choice that pairs wonderfully with the crispy fry bread.
Taco Meat – Ground beef or chicken; this can be easily swapped for vegetarian options.
Lettuce – Adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the other toppings.
Tomatoes – Juicy and vibrant, they bring freshness to your Navajo taco.
Avocado – Creamy and delicious, it enhances the overall flavor experience.
Olives – These can provide a tangy bite to your creation and are completely customizable to your taste.

Enjoy the delightful experience of creating your own tacos with this simple yet satisfying Navajo taco recipe!

How to Make Navajo Tacos

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Pour in the hot water slowly while stirring until a sticky dough forms. Cover and let it rest for 10 minutes.
Heat Oil: While the dough rests, heat 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep saucepan to about 350°F. A thermometer can be handy to ensure the oil is at the right temperature for frying.
Divide Dough: Once rested, divide the dough into golf ball-sized pieces, rolling each piece between your palms to form a smooth ball.
Roll Out Circles: On a lightly floured surface, flatten each dough ball with a rolling pin into a thin circle, approximately 6-7 inches in diameter. Aim for an even thickness for perfect frying.
Fry the Bread: Carefully lower the dough circles into the hot oil. Fry for about 20 seconds until they puff and turn golden brown. Flip them and cook for an additional 10-20 seconds. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Assemble Tacos: Top the warm fry bread with chili beans, taco meat, and your choice of toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, and olives. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshness!

Optional: Drizzle with your favorite salsa or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Navajo Tacos

Fridge: Keep any leftover fry bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the uncooked dough balls tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frying.

Reheating: If you have leftover cooked fry bread, reheat in a dry skillet over medium heat for a couple of minutes on each side to bring back its crispy texture.

Tip: Fry bread is best enjoyed fresh, so plan to make it the day you intend to serve your delicious Navajo tacos!

Make Ahead Options

These Homemade Navajo Tacos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the fry bread dough up to 24 hours in advance, covering it tightly and refrigerating to maintain its freshness. Additionally, you can shape the dough into balls and refrigerate them for added convenience. When it’s time to serve, simply roll out the dough and fry as directed for that crispy texture. For toppings like chili beans and taco meat, feel free to cook and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat before assembling your tacos, ensuring a delightful meal that saves you time on busy weeknights!

What to Serve with Navajo Taco?

Elevate your taco night with delightful sides and accompaniments that create a well-rounded meal experience.

Mexican Rice: Fluffy and flavorful, a scoop of Mexican rice complements the richness of the fry bread beautifully. It adds that classic comfort food touch.
Fresh Guacamole: Creamy and zesty, guacamole offers a refreshing contrast to warm, savory toppings, enhancing each bite of your Navajo taco.
Coleslaw: Crunchy and tangy, a side of coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts perfectly with the crispy fry bread.
Pico de Gallo: This vibrant, fresh salsa brings juicy tomatoes, onions, and cilantro together, balancing flavors and adding a pop of freshness to your meal.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, sweet corn adds a delightful sweetness and is an excellent addition for an outdoor gathering or summer meal.
Tortilla Chips: Perfect for scooping up toppings or enjoyed with salsa, chips provide an additional crunch that pairs seamlessly with the Navajo taco.
Horchata: Cool and refreshing, this traditional Mexican drink pairs beautifully with the spices of the tacos, enhancing your flavor experience.
Churros: For dessert, serve churros, a sweet treat that offers a satisfying crunch and a hint of cinnamon sugar, rounding off your meal perfectly.
Pickled Jalapeños: If you enjoy a kick, these zesty pickles are the perfect spicy complement and can be served on the side for an extra layer of flavor.

Expert Tips for Navajo Tacos

Temperature Matters: Ensure the oil is at 350°F for the perfect fry. Too hot can cause burning while too cool results in sogginess.
Fresh is Best: Fry the bread right before serving. Leftover fry bread loses its delightful crunch, so prioritize freshness!
Storage Solution: If you have dough leftovers, freeze them tightly wrapped. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before frying for a quick dinner solution.
Customize Your Topping: Feel free to mix and match your toppings. Think outside the box with ingredients that reflect your family’s tastes for the ultimate Navajo taco!
Rolling Technique: Aim for even thickness when rolling out the dough circles. This ensures uniform cooking and perfect puffiness during frying.

Navajo Taco Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful twists on the classic Navajo taco!

Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to cater to those with dietary restrictions. It’s just as tasty!
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the dough for a spicy flavor that’ll excite your taste buds.
Savory Twist: Use ground turkey or chicken in place of beef for a lighter yet equally satisfying filling. It doesn’t lose its flavor!
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the dough for added freshness and a pop of color. It takes your fry bread to the next level!
Sweet Variation: Try a dessert version by adding a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar to the dough before frying, then top with fruit and whipped cream. Perfect for a sweet treat!
Whole Wheat: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor profile while making it a bit healthier. Balance is key in cooking!
Vegetarian Delight: Load your taco with black beans, corn, or sautéed bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian option. Everyone will love it, regardless of their diet!
Cheesy Goodness: Throw some shredded cheese directly onto the fry bread while it’s still warm before topping it off with all the savory ingredients. Melty cheese makes everything better!

Navajo Taco Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right flour for Navajo tacos?
I recommend using all-purpose flour for its structure and texture, but if you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, gluten-free flour can work well! Just make sure to follow the package instructions for best results, as it may not require the same measurements.

How long can I store leftover fry bread?
You can keep any leftover fry bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, for the best texture, it’s ideal to enjoy them fresh! If you have leftovers, make sure to reheat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a couple of minutes on each side to regain that crispy goodness.

Can I freeze the fry bread dough for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze the uncooked dough, wrap the individual dough balls tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to use them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge.

What should I do if my fry bread isn’t puffing up while frying?
If your fry bread isn’t puffing up, it might be due to the oil temperature not being hot enough. Ensure your oil reaches 350°F before frying—use a thermometer if you have one! Also, avoid overcrowding the frying pan, as that can lower the oil temperature significantly. Lastly, make sure you rolled the dough evenly; uneven thickness can affect the puffiness.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Very! You can customize your toppings to suit dietary preferences. For a vegetarian version, opt for fresh vegetables, beans, or meat alternatives. Black beans and chickpeas are great fillings that complement the crispy fry bread beautifully. Just ensure any meat substitutes are seasoned well to keep the flavors vibrant!

Is it safe to feed my pets any leftover fry bread?
While it’s tempting to share with furry friends, it’s best to keep fry bread away from pets. The ingredients—especially fried foods—may not be suitable for their diets. It’s always safer to stick to pet-friendly treats, so you can enjoy your Navajo tacos guilt-free!