Ultimate Blackstone Tacos: Quick, Customizable & Delicious Griddle Recipes
Blackstone Tacos are revolutionizing weeknight dinners and backyard barbecues alike, offering a delightfully tasty and surprisingly simple way to elevate your meal rotation. Embracing your Blackstone griddle for taco night isn’t just about cooking; it’s an opportunity to step outside, enjoy the fresh air, and create a memorable, mouth-watering meal for your family and friends. This incredibly versatile dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules, and its customizable nature ensures everyone at the table finds something they love.
Say goodbye to the hassle of juggling multiple pans on the stovetop. With a Blackstone, you can cook all your taco components on a single, expansive surface, from perfectly seasoned ground beef to warm, pliable tortillas. The possibilities for customization are truly endless. Swap out proteins to suit different dietary preferences, pile on an exciting array of savory toppings, and adjust spice levels to create tacos that are uniquely yours. And when the feast is over, the speedy cleanup means you’ll spend less time at the sink and more time enjoying that well-deserved post-meal relaxation.
This recipe is particularly ideal for households with diverse taste preferences. By setting up a DIY taco bar, you empower everyone to build their perfect plate without any fuss. It’s also incredibly easy to scale up, whether you’re cooking for a small family or hosting a large gathering. Plus, making extra servings to enjoy later in the week means delicious leftovers for lunches or quick dinners. Wondering what to serve alongside your Blackstone tacos? They pair wonderfully with classic Mexican rice, zesty cilantro lime rice, or creamy refried beans. For a refreshing contrast, a simple watermelon berry salad can add a delightful touch to your meal.
Why You’ll Love Making Tacos on Your Blackstone Griddle
Embracing the Blackstone griddle for your taco nights offers a multitude of advantages that go beyond just a delicious meal. It transforms the cooking process into an efficient, enjoyable, and incredibly versatile experience. Here’s why this Blackstone taco recipe is about to become your new favorite:
Large Batch Friendly: Unlike cooking on a stovetop, which typically limits you to the capacity of a single skillet, the expansive cooking surface of a Blackstone griddle allows you to effortlessly prepare two to three times the normal amount of taco meat. This makes it a fantastic solution for feeding large families, hosting parties, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. Beyond the meat, the Blackstone’s generous size also means you can warm numerous tortillas simultaneously, ensuring all components of your meal are ready to serve hot and fresh at the same time, preventing any part of the dish from getting cold while you wait.
Easy to Customize for Everyone: One of the standout features of a Blackstone griddle is its ability to create distinct cooking zones, making it easier than ever to cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs. You can dedicate one zone to perfectly browned ground beef, another for sizzling chicken strips, and even a third for griddling shrimp or steak for a luxurious surf and turf taco combination. This multi-zone cooking capability also allows for vegetarian or plant-based options to be prepared right alongside meat, ensuring everyone can build their ideal taco with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Superior Flavor and Texture: The high, even heat of the Blackstone griddle imparts a unique and irresistible char to your taco meat that’s difficult to achieve in a regular skillet. This browning creates a deeper, more robust flavor profile. Moreover, warming tortillas on the griddle gives them a slightly crispy edge while keeping them soft and pliable, a texture that elevates the entire taco experience beyond what microwave or oven warming can offer.
Simple Clean-Up: While stovetop tacos are not overly complicated, they often result in a messy aftermath with multiple greasy pans. By utilizing a single griddle surface for cooking both the meat and tortillas, you significantly streamline the cleanup process. A well-seasoned Blackstone is remarkably easy to clean, especially when done promptly after your meal, often requiring just a quick scrape and wipe, freeing you up to enjoy your evening.
An Engaging Outdoor Cooking Experience: Taking your cooking outdoors transforms meal preparation into a social event. The Blackstone griddle encourages interaction as family and friends gather around, watching the food sizzle and smelling the delicious aromas. It keeps the heat out of your kitchen during warmer months and adds an element of fun and excitement to any meal, turning an ordinary dinner into an enjoyable outdoor activity.
Essential Ingredients for Your Blackstone Tacos
Crafting the perfect Blackstone tacos starts with a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. While the core components are straightforward, understanding the role of each element and the flexibility for substitutions will help you create a truly personalized and unforgettable meal:
- 1 tablespoon oil: A light drizzle of your preferred cooking oil is crucial for preventing the taco seasoning and meat from sticking to the griddle surface. While your Blackstone should already be regularly seasoned and oiled after cleaning, a little extra olive oil, vegetable oil, or a quick spritz of cooking spray ensures optimal non-stick performance and helps the meat brown beautifully.
- 1 pound ground beef: For Blackstone tacos, 80/20 ground beef is often the top choice. The higher fat content not only aids in browning and developing a rich flavor but also helps to keep the meat moist and tender. If you opt for a leaner type of ground beef (like 90/10), you might need to add a bit more oil to prevent it from drying out during cooking.
- 1 (1-ounce) packet taco seasoning: This is where the flavor magic happens! Feel free to use your absolute favorite brand of taco seasoning, selecting a spice level that perfectly suits your palate – mild, medium, or hot. Whether you prefer the convenience of a store-bought packet or enjoy crafting your own homemade blend, it will integrate wonderfully with the griddled beef. For an unexpected and delicious zesty kick, consider stirring in 2 tablespoons of dry ranch seasoning alongside your taco blend.
- 12 Crunchy Taco Shells: This recipe traditionally calls for crunchy corn taco shells, which get an amazing crispness on the Blackstone. However, if soft tacos are more your style, feel free to use soft flour or corn tortillas and follow the same warming method. Just remember to keep a close eye on them to prevent over-browning or burning, as they cook very quickly on the hot griddle.
- 1 1/2 cups Mexican blend cheese: Cheese is a non-negotiable component for classic tacos! A pre-shredded Mexican blend cheese offers convenience and a great combination of flavors that melt beautifully. Monterey Jack and Pepper Jack are also fantastic choices that deliver a creamy texture and a subtle kick, respectively.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded iceberg lettuce: Crisp, shredded iceberg lettuce provides a refreshing crunch and cools the palate, balancing the rich, seasoned meat. For a slightly different texture or flavor, consider using finely shredded romaine lettuce or even a vibrant cabbage slaw.
- 3 Roma tomatoes: Look for firm Roma tomatoes with a deep, vibrant color to ensure the best flavor and texture when diced. Alternatively, to save prep time or for a different flavor profile, you can use your favorite jarred salsa or quickly whip up a fresh batch of pico de gallo for that fresh tomato goodness.
- 3/4 cup sour cream: A dollop of sour cream is the perfect cooling and creamy topping for your tacos. It adds essential moisture and a tangy flavor that beautifully complements the smoky, spicy notes of the taco seasoning. For a healthier alternative, plain Greek yogurt can be a great substitute, offering similar creaminess with added protein.
- Optional Toppings for Extra Flair: Elevate your Blackstone tacos with additional toppings such as diced red onion, fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños (fresh or pickled), creamy guacamole or sliced avocado, your favorite hot sauce, or even a sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese.
Step-by-Step Instructions For Crafting Delicious Blackstone Tacos
Get ready to cook up some seriously delicious tacos with these simple, griddle-friendly steps. The beauty of the Blackstone is its efficiency, allowing you to create a fantastic meal with minimal fuss.
1. Prepare the Griddle and Brown the Beef: Begin by preheating your Blackstone griddle to a medium-low heat setting. Once it’s hot, drizzle a tablespoon of oil evenly across the cooking surface. Carefully place the pound of ground beef onto the hot griddle. Using a sturdy metal spatula or a meat chopper, immediately start breaking the beef into small, uniform crumbles. Continue to cook, stirring and chopping occasionally, for approximately 7-10 minutes, or until the beef is fully browned and no pink remains. Ensuring even browning is key for flavor and texture. If excess fat accumulates, use your spatula to push it into the griddle’s grease trap for easy removal.
2. Season the Meat to Perfection: Once the ground beef is thoroughly cooked and crumbly, evenly sprinkle the entire packet of taco seasoning over the meat. Use your spatula to gently fold and mix the seasoning into the beef, ensuring every piece is coated. Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to toast slightly and fully release their aromas and flavors. This short period allows the beef to absorb the rich seasoning blend. As the meat cooks with the seasoning, continue to scrape away any accumulated beef fat around the edges to keep your tacos from being overly greasy.
3. Warm the Taco Shells: Once the meat is seasoned and ready, scoop it into a heat-safe bowl and set it aside to keep warm. Quickly scrape the griddle clean of any leftover seasoning or small meat pieces using your griddle scraper – a clean surface ensures even tortilla heating. Then, arrange the taco shells or soft tortillas onto the Blackstone in a single, even layer. Cook the tortillas for about 30-60 seconds per side, or until they are lightly browned, warm, and slightly crisp to your liking. Watch them closely, as griddles can heat very quickly!
4. Assemble and Serve: Now for the best part – building your delicious Blackstone tacos! Take your warmed shells or tortillas and generously layer the seasoned ground beef inside each. Follow with a sprinkle of Mexican blend cheese, allowing its warmth to slightly melt the cheese. Then, add your favorite toppings, such as shredded iceberg lettuce, diced Roma tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream. Serve your masterpiece warm immediately and let everyone customize their own perfect taco creation.
Creative Variations and Flavorful Substitutions for Your Tacos
One of the greatest joys of making tacos is the endless array of possibilities. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different proteins, tortillas, and toppings to discover new favorite combinations. The Blackstone griddle truly shines in its ability to handle these variations with ease.
- Swap the Beef for Other Proteins: The Blackstone is incredibly versatile when it comes to cooking different meats. Instead of ground beef, consider using chicken, shrimp, or steak. For chicken and steak, it’s best if they are first sliced into thin strips or small cubes to ensure quick and even cooking on the griddle. Always adjust the cooking time to ensure each protein reaches its safe internal temperature for doneness. For a detailed guide on griddle chicken, you can refer to recipes like these Blackstone chicken fajitas. For plant-based options, crumbled tofu, seasoned black beans, or even lentils can be quickly heated and seasoned on the griddle.
- Switch Up the Tortillas: Blackstone beef tacos are equally delicious with various tortilla options. While crunchy corn shells provide a satisfying snap, soft flour tortillas offer a comforting chewiness. Corn tortillas, when warmed on the griddle, develop a wonderful aroma and pliable texture. For those watching their carbohydrate intake, low-carb tortillas also perform excellently on the griddle. You can even try making “cheese crisp” shells by melting a thin layer of cheese directly on the griddle until crispy, then folding it into a taco shape as it cools.
- Customize the Toppings Galore: The toppings are where your personal touch truly comes to life. Beyond the classic lettuce, tomato, and sour cream, consider adding a vibrant array of flavors and textures. Freshly prepared salsa or pico de gallo adds a bright kick. A generous dollop of creamy guacamole or sliced avocado brings richness. Diced white or red onions, fresh cilantro, and pickled or fresh jalapeños provide layers of sharpness and heat. For extra heartiness, incorporate black beans or refried beans. Don’t forget a splash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra fiery punch!
Pro Tips and Tricks for Perfect Blackstone Tacos Every Time
Mastering your Blackstone griddle for tacos is all about understanding its unique cooking properties and having a few clever techniques up your sleeve. These tips will help you achieve consistently delicious results and make your taco night a resounding success.
- Start It Low to Control the Heat: If you’re new to Blackstone cooking, it’s essential to get a feel for its powerful temperature controls. You might be surprised at how quickly the griddle surface heats up, even on a medium setting. Starting on medium-low heat and gradually increasing it if needed will give you better control, preventing the meat from cooking too fast and becoming tough or dry. This allows the ground beef ample time to render its fat, brown evenly, and truly absorb the taco seasoning for maximum flavor. Remember, patience in the beginning pays off with superior texture and taste.
- Making a Batch for the Week? Maximize Your Meal Prep: The large surface of the Blackstone makes it ideal for cooking larger quantities, which is perfect for meal prepping. Store any leftover taco meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days to enjoy throughout the week. This versatile seasoned meat can be repurposed beyond just tacos; it’s fantastic in taco salads, hearty taco bowls with rice and beans, delicious nachos, quesadillas, or even stirred into a comforting taco pasta or stuffed into bell peppers.
- To Freeze Taco Meat for Future Meals: If you’re a batch cooker, the Blackstone is your best friend for doubling or even tripling your usual recipe size and freezing portions for ultimate convenience. To freeze Blackstone taco meat, first allow it to cool completely to room temperature. Then, transfer the desired amount into a freezer-safe storage bag, pressing out as much air as possible before sealing. Lay the bag flat in your freezer until it’s completely frozen. Freezing it flat not only saves space but also allows for much faster and more even thawing compared to a thick, frozen ball of meat.
- To Thaw Frozen Taco Meat: When you’re ready to use your frozen taco meat, simply submerge the sealed freezer bag in a bowl of cool water for 10-15 minutes, or until it has thawed. Once thawed, you can easily reheat the meat in a skillet on your stovetop or back on the Blackstone griddle over medium heat until it’s heated throughout and sizzling hot, ready for your next taco creation.
- Maintain Your Griddle for Best Results: A well-seasoned and properly maintained Blackstone griddle is key to delicious food and easy cleanup. After each use, scrape off food residue, wipe with a paper towel, and apply a thin layer of cooking oil. This protects the surface and maintains its non-stick properties, ensuring your griddle is always ready for your next culinary adventure.
- Utilize Griddle Zones for Efficiency: The Blackstone’s multiple burners allow for different heat zones. Use a hotter zone for browning meat and a cooler zone for warming tortillas, melting cheese on assembled tacos, or keeping components warm. This multi-zone cooking makes meal prep much more efficient.
More Griddle & Taco-Inspired Delights
If you loved the simplicity and flavor of these Blackstone Tacos, you’ll be excited to explore other griddle favorites and taco-inspired dishes. The Blackstone is a versatile tool that can handle a wide range of meals, and these recipes are sure to become new staples in your kitchen:
- Blackstone Smash Burgers
- Taco Fiesta Bubble Up Casserole
- Blackstone Chicken Fajitas
Whether you’re looking for another quick weeknight dinner or a fun dish to make for a crowd, these related recipes offer fantastic flavor and ease of preparation, just like our beloved Blackstone Tacos. Enjoy expanding your culinary repertoire!
Blackstone Tacos
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 pound 80/20 ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 12 crunchy corn taco shells
- 1 1/2 cups shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1 diced roma tomato
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 3/4 cup sour cream
Instructions
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Preheat and oil the Blackstone. Place the ground beef onto the Blackstone and use a metal spatula to break it into crumbles. Continue cooking for 7-10 minutes until fully cooked and no pink remains.
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Sprinkle the taco seasoning on top of the beef. Use the spatula to fold the seasoning into the meat. Feel free to scrape away the beef fat as it accumulates around the meat.
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Scoop the meat into a bowl and set aside. Scrape the griddle to remove any leftover seasoning or meat pieces. Then, place the tortillas onto the Blackstone in an even layer. Cook the tortillas for 30-60 seconds per side until lightly browned to your liking.
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Build the tacos: Layer meat and cheese on top of each taco and add additional toppings to your liking. Serve warm.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.