By Wendy Stoltz / Last Modified On July 6, 2023

It's time to elevate your gluten-free tacos game for next Taco Tuesday! We will delve into vibrant ingredients, mouthwatering fillings, and a gluten-free tortilla that boasts all the qualities you love in a taco—soft, flexible, and bursting with authentic taste. Embrace the gluten-free lifestyle and get ready to savor the irresistible flavors of these gluten-free tacos.

Explore the irresistible flavors of Mexican cuisine with these mouthwatering gluten-free recipes, from gluten-free fish tacos that transport you to Mexico. This authentic homemade gluten-free taco seasoning adds depth of flavor to your dishes. Don't miss out on the perfect gluten-free corn tortillas that are the foundation for your Mexican-inspired creations. Get ready to savor the bold, authentic flavors of these Mexican dishes, where gluten-free and delicious come together seamlessly.

If you are planning a trip to Las Vegas, take a look at our helpful guide to all things gluten-free dining in lively Las Vegas.

Change up your weekly meal plan and embark on a delicious adventure of exploring diverse cultures and cuisines by immersing yourself in the world of gluten-free cooking. Sign up for these gluten-free Udemy courses.

Table of Contents

Gluten-Free Tacos Recipe

Tacos have never been easier! This recipe for gluten-free tacos is a classic. Use my gluten-free taco seasoning or your favorite store-bought taco seasoning to make this gluten-free taco meat. Serve these tacos with my Gluten-Free Tortillas for the perfect meal. If you are on a low-carb diet, try these low-carb tortillas.

There are so many ways to make gluten-free tacos. Here are a few of my other favorite taco recipes:

This gluten-free taco meat recipe is our number one go-to taco meat recipe. It takes less than 15 minutes to make, and we often double or triple the recipe for leftovers.

We like to not only make tacos with this taco meat. We like to use it for burritos, quesadillas, and taco-stuffed baked potatoes.

Why You’re Going to Love These Gluten-Free Tacos

Authentic Mexican flavors - Experience the authentic flavors of Mexican cuisine with these gluten-free tacos that capture the essence of traditional Mexican street food.

Easy and accessible ingredients - Simple and readily available ingredients are all you need to create these delicious gluten-free tacos, making them convenient and budget-friendly.

Versatility and customization - Customize your gluten-free tacos with your favorite fillings, toppings, and seasonings, allowing you to tailor them to your preferences and dietary needs.

Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing - These gluten-free tacos are loved by both kids and adults alike, making them a perfect choice for family meals or gatherings with friends.

Ingredients in Gluten-Free Tacos

Ground beef or ground turkey - Provides the savory base for taco meat, adding protein and flavor.

Gluten-free taco seasoning - Infuses the meat with a tantalizing blend of spices, enhancing the overall taste and aroma. I have created my own gluten-free homemade taco seasoning mix, which is so tasty, and yes, it is so easy to do yourself too!

Water - Helps incorporate the seasoning into the meat while cooking, ensuring the flavors are evenly distributed.

Gluten-free tortillas - Serve as the vessel for the taco fillings, offering a soft and flexible texture that complements the meat and toppings perfectly. When purchasing corn tortillas, it's important to check the packaging to ensure they are gluten-free and made in a wheat-free facility. I like to make my own with this gluten-free corn tortillas recipe to avoid any cross-contact. But don't get me wrong; store-bought is great for those busy weeks.

Toppings of your choice - Lettuce, cheese, diced tomatoes, salsa, guacamole, and more add freshness, creaminess, and bursts of flavor, elevating the overall taco experience.

Equipment Needed for This Gluten-Free Tacos

Large skillet - Used for cooking ground beef or ground turkey for taco meat.

Stirring utensil - To stir and incorporate the taco seasoning into the meat.

Cutting board and knife - For slicing and dicing toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and jalapeños.

Tortilla warmer (optional) - Keeps the gluten-free tortillas warm and pliable until ready to serve. This is nice to have, especially if you host regular taco Tuesday meals.

If you have any questions about making Gluten-Free Tacos, please leave a comment, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

How to Make Gluten-Free Tacos

Cook beef or turkey in a large skillet over medium heat until cooked through.
Add 6-8 teaspoons of gluten-free taco seasoning mix and stir. TIP: Make my homemade taco seasoning mix it adds such great flavor.
Add ¼ cup water to help incorporate the seasoning into the meat.
Continue to cook until combined, and all water cooks off. Serve inside gluten-free tortillas with your favorite toppings.

Tips for Making the Best Gluten-Free Tacos

Season the taco meat generously - Use ample amounts of gluten-free taco seasoning or create your own flavorful spice blend for a delicious and well-seasoned filling.

Sauté or brown the meat for extra flavor - Cook the ground beef or turkey until it's nicely browned, adding depth and richness to the taco meat.

Don't skimp on the toppings - Load up your tacos with an array of fresh and flavorful toppings like lettuce, cheese, salsa, guacamole, and more to enhance the overall taste and texture.

Experiment with different fillings - Get creative and try different fillings, like pulled pork, grilled shrimp, or roasted vegetables, to add variety and cater to different dietary preferences and taste buds.

Serve with a squeeze of lime - A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds brightness and tanginess, balancing the flavors and enhancing the overall taco experience.

Add a touch of heat - If you enjoy spice, add sliced jalapeños, hot sauce, or a sprinkle of chili flakes to give your tacos a kick.

Don't forget the garnishes - Fresh cilantro, chopped onions, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese are delightful finishing touches that elevate the visual appeal and flavor profile of your tacos.

Are Tacos Usually Gluten-free?

Traditional tacos, made with corn tortillas and simple ingredients like meat, vegetables, and herbs, are typically gluten-free. Corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free since they are made from corn, which does not contain gluten. However, it's important to note that some taco fillings or toppings may contain gluten. For example, if a taco is prepared with flour tortillas, wheat-based seasonings, or sauces thickened with wheat flour, it may not be gluten-free.

Additionally, cross-contamination can occur if the tacos are prepared or served in a kitchen that handles gluten-containing ingredients. Therefore, it's always advisable to check the ingredients and preparation methods or opt for certified gluten-free tacos to ensure they are safe for gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.

Do corn tortillas have gluten?

They are typically made from ground corn, water, and sometimes lime. So, therefor most corn tortillas are gluten-free. You’ll want to check the ingredients on the packaging. Also, make sure to double-check that the corn tortillas you purchase are made in a wheat-free facility and not processed on the same equipment as other gluten-containing ingredients.

How Do I Store Gluten-Free Tacos?

Keep the cooked taco meat, tortillas, and toppings in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. If you have assembled tacos with toppings, wrap them individually in foil or place them in airtight containers. This will help prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy. Ideally, eat your stored gluten-free tacos within 2-3 days for the best taste and quality.

Can I Freeze Gluten-Free Tacos?

Yes, you can freeze gluten-free tacos. However, it's best to freeze the taco components separately (tortillas, taco meat, and toppings) to maintain their texture and flavor. Depending on what toppings you use, you may be unable to freeze them. i.e., Lettuce will go limp.

Can You Make This Gluten-Free Tacos Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the components of gluten-free tacos ahead of time. Cook the taco meat, chop the toppings, and store them separately in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble and serve.

When you're ready to eat, warm up the taco meat, heat the tortillas, and then assemble the tacos with your pre-prepared toppings. This saves time and makes serving quick and easy.

What Substitutions / Replacements Can I Make in These Gluten-Free Tacos?

Tortilla options - If you prefer a different type of tortilla, you can use gluten-free flour tortillas, lettuce wraps, or even corn taco shells.

Protein substitutes - Instead of ground beef or turkey, you can use ground chicken (chicken tacos), pork, or vegetarian alternatives like tofu or tempeh for the taco filling.

Seasoning alternatives - Use different taco seasoning blends or create your own using a combination of herbs and spices that suit your taste preferences. I like to make my homemade taco seasoning mix.

Topping variations - Customize your tacos with various toppings based on your preferences and dietary needs.

Are Corn Tortillas Gluten-free And Hard Taco Shells?

Yes, corn tortillas are generally gluten-free. They are made from masa harina, which is a type of corn flour. Corn itself does not contain gluten, so corn tortillas are a safe option for a gluten-free diet. Hard taco shell made from corn is also usually gluten-free. However, it's important to check the packaging or ingredient list to ensure no gluten-containing ingredients or cross-contamination issues are present.

What to put on GF tacos?

You can put whatever desired toppings you like on gluten-free tacos. Here are some of our favorite taco toppings:

Lettuce
Shredded Cheese
Diced tomatoes
Salsa
Guacamole
Sour cream
Hot sauce or even tomato sauce.
Lime juice
Cilantro
Sliced jalapeño
Avocado
Black beans (we've got a Crockpot Black Bean recipe if you're interested)
Refried beans

You can enjoy traditional tacos by serving the gluten-free taco meat in gluten-free corn tortillas, or you can make taco bowls or a taco salad.

Why Are Taco Bell Tacos Not Gluten-free?

Taco Bell tacos are not considered gluten-free due to a few factors. First, Taco Bell uses flour tortillas for many of its taco options, which are made with wheat flour, which contains gluten. Additionally, Taco Bell's preparation and cooking processes may involve shared equipment or cross-contamination with gluten-containing ingredients. This can occur during the handling and cooking of various menu items, such as the use of shared fryers for both gluten-free and gluten-containing items.

Store Bought Gluten-Free Tortillas

When it comes to enjoying gluten-free tacos, one of the key components is the tortilla. While making homemade tortillas can be a fun and rewarding experience, sometimes we're looking for convenience without compromising taste and quality. Here's a variety of brands and options available:

Mission Gluten-Free Flour Tortillas
Mission Gluten-Free Corn Tortillas
Don Poncho Gluten-Free Corn Tortillas
Old El Paso Stand 'N Stuff Taco Shells (for crunchy tacos!)
BFree Flour Tortillas
Siete Foods Tortillas

Please always check labels, as ingredients may change! Not all of these tortillas are soft, and they all have very different textures. I use gluten-free corn tortillas in my gluten-free enchiladas recipe. Most corn tortillas are firm and need to be precooked for enchiladas, but we have a brand in our area (Don Poncho) that is soft enough to roll uncooked.

Go and enjoy these easy gluten-free tacos for Taco Tuesday.

Yield: 4 servings

Gluten-Free Tacos

Name: Gluten-Free Tacos
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb. ground beef or ground turkey; 6-8 teaspoons gluten free taco seasoning; 1/4 cup water; 8 gluten-free tortillas; toppings of choice

Elevate your gluten-free tacos game as we delve into vibrant ingredients, mouthwatering fillings, and a gluten-free tortilla that has all the qualities you love

Prep Time 5 minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes

Total Time 15 minutes

Ingredients

1 lb. ground beef or ground turkey
6-8 teaspoons gluten free taco seasoning
¼ cup water
8 gluten-free tortillas
toppings of choice

Instructions

Cook beef or turkey in a large skillet over medium heat until cooked through.
Add gluten-free taco seasoning mix (or one store bought packet) and stir.
Add ¼ cup water to help incorporate the seasoning into the meat.
Continue to cook until combined and all water cooks off.
Serve inside tortillas with your favorite toppings.

Notes

You can use ground beef or turkey in this recipe.
If you don't want to use a homemade taco seasoning you can use 1 store bought packet of gluten-free taco seasoning.
Always check the labels of spices or seasoning packets before you purchase them.
This recipe makes about 16 oz. of taco meat, which is about 8 servings (2 oz. of taco meat per taco). The nutrition info is for the taco meat and does not include the tortillas or toppings.

Recommended Products

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases. They never cost you extra.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

Serving Size:

2 oz.
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 383Total Fat: 24gSaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 126mgSodium: 175mgCarbohydrates: 2gFiber: 0gSugar: 0gProtein: 37g

This nutrition info is based on the exact ingredients and brands that I used a the time. It may not be 100% accurate. Please check your ingredients nutrition labels.

pinterest pin collage for gluten-free tacos.

Did you make gluten-free tacos? If so, leave me a comment below, letting me know what you thought and what your favorite toppings are!

Thanks for sharing!