Jack in the Box beef tacos have become iconic in American fast food culture since their introduction in the 1950s. Originating from the West Coast, particularly California, these tacos have gained popularity nationwide. Originally intended as a simple and affordable menu item, Jack in the Box beef tacos have evolved into a beloved fast food staple known for their unique taste and convenience.
Taste of Jack in the Box Beef Tacos:
Jack in the Box beef tacos are renowned for their distinct flavor profile. The seasoned ground beef filling, paired with American cheese, lettuce, and a tangy taco sauce, creates a satisfying combination of savory and slightly spicy flavors. The crispy corn tortilla shell adds a satisfying crunch to each bite. The overall taste is comforting, familiar, and immensely satisfying, making it a favorite among fast food enthusiasts.
How to make Jack In the Box Beef Tacos?
Making Jack in the Box beef tacos at home is relatively simple and requires only a few ingredients.
- The seasoned ground beef filling is cooked until browned and then combined with taco sauce for added flavor.
- Corn tortillas are warmed to make them pliable, filled with the beef mixture, and folded in half.
- The tacos are then fried until crispy and golden brown.
- Finally, they are garnished with American cheese and shredded lettuce before serving.
Different Variants:
While the classic Jack in the Box beef taco remains a favorite, there are several variants to suit different preferences.
Some variations include adding additional toppings such as:
- Diced tomatoes,
- Onions,
- Jalapeños for added flavor and texture.
When it comes to making Jack in the Box-style beef tacos, there are several cheese variants you can experiment with to add a unique twist to the classic recipe:
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese adds a rich and tangy flavor to the tacos, complementing the savory beef filling.
- Pepper Jack Cheese: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, pepper jack cheese infused with spicy jalapeño peppers is an excellent choice. It adds a kick of flavor that pairs well with the seasoned beef.
- Monterey Jack Cheese: Known for its mild flavor and smooth texture, Monterey Jack cheese melts beautifully and adds a creamy richness to the tacos.
- Queso Blanco: Queso blanco, or white cheese, is a soft and mild Mexican cheese that melts easily and lends a creamy texture to the tacos. It’s a great option for those who prefer a milder cheese flavor.
- Cotija Cheese: This crumbly Mexican cheese has a tangy and salty flavor that adds a unique twist to the tacos. Sprinkle some cotija cheese on top of the beef filling for an extra burst of flavor.
- Oaxaca Cheese: Similar in texture to mozzarella, Oaxaca cheese melts beautifully and has a mild, buttery flavor. It’s perfect for adding a creamy texture to the tacos.
- Colby Jack Cheese: A combination of Colby and Monterey Jack cheeses, Colby Jack offers a balanced flavor profile with a creamy texture. It melts well and adds a mild, slightly sweet flavor to the tacos.
Jack in The Box Beef Tacos
Print RecipeIngredients
- 1 lb. ground beef
- Seasoning Mix:
- 3 cups cold water
- 1 cup ground texturized soy protein, grind in food processor
- 2tbsp defatted soy grits or soy flour
- 2tbsp tomato paste
- 4tsp dried onion flakes
- 1tbsp plain chili powder
- 1tbsp masa corn flour
- 1tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2tsp salt
- 1tsp Accent seasoning
- 1tsp garlic powder
- ¾tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½tsp sugar
- ¼tsp ground cumin
- 1 dash ground black pepper
- 1 dash cayenne pepper
- 1 dash citric acid
- Taco Shell (Per Serving):
- 1 stone-ground corn tortilla
- Deep frying oil
- Pure canola oil
- Remaining Taco Filling (Per Serving):
- 1tsp taco sauce
- ½ slice American cheese, divided diagonally
- 2tbsp shredded iceberg lettuce
Instructions
- Take a medium size bowl, Pour 3 cups cold water in it. Add the Seasoning MIX ingredients, Whisk mixture well until dry ingredients are thoroughly dissolved. SET aside.
- Cook the ground taco beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, stirring constantly to avoid overcooking. If needed, drain the excess fat.
- Once the beef is browned, add the blended seasoning mix to the skillet. Increase the heat to high and let the mixture boil for one minute, stirring it continuously. Then, reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking the mixture, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid evaporates and the ground beef is moist but not soggy.
- Cover the beef mixture and turn down the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes to steam the meat and allow the flavors to blend completely. If it becomes too thick, you can add a bit more water to adjust the consistency.
- Next, transfer the filling to a food processor and blend until it reaches a smooth texture. Finally, put it back in the skillet on low heat to keep it warm until serving.
- Cut the American cheese slices diagonally as needed and shred the iceberg lettuce. Heat a small amount (about ¼tsp) of vegetable oil in a skillet over low heat.
- Warm the corn tortillas one by one in the skillet, flipping them to moisten both sides until they are soft and flexible, which helps prevent tearing. Once warmed, stack the prepared tortillas between paper towels to absorb any excess moisture.
- Spoon approx. 1tbsp of the warm beef filling mixture into each tortilla. Fold the tortilla in half so the bottom curls. Gently press the bottom half of the taco to secure the filling without tearing, using a taco press or a makeshift mold if available.
- Leave the tops of the tacos open by about 1 inch. Carefully arrange the filled and formed tacos into Ziploc bags, making sure not to overcrowd or let them touch. Place the sealed tacos in a resealable plastic container to prevent breakage.
- Freeze them overnight or until you’re ready to deep-fry.
- Slowly preheat deep-fryer with manufacturer’s recommended amount of oil to 365℉.
- Fry each taco individually for 55-65 seconds at 365℉, ensuring they’re supported with a taco press or tongs.
- Once cooked, place them on absorbent paper to drain slightly. For efficiency and to enjoy hot, fresh tacos, I recommend one person frying while another assembles.
- To Assemble Tacos: 1.Gently open each fried taco. Add 1 teaspoon of prepared Jack in the Box Copycat Taco Sauce. Place a cut American cheese triangle inside one side. Finally, garnish with 2 tablespoons of shredded iceberg lettuce.
- Serve and enjoy your Jack in the Box Beef Tacos.
Jack in The Box Beef Tacos
