There’s something incredibly nostalgic and comforting about biting into warm, golden fry bread tacos.
The dough puffs up beautifully in hot oil, creating a crispy exterior with a soft, pillowy inside.
Top it with savory taco meat, beans, and all your favorite fixings—and you’ve got a meal that’s both hearty and full of joy. These have been a family favorite in my home for years!
Why I Love This Recipe
Crispy and chewy perfection – The fry bread is light, golden, and addictive.
Customizable toppings – From chili beans to avocado, build it your way.
Budget-friendly – Pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients are all you need.
Comfort food at its best – This recipe never fails to satisfy a craving.
Perfect for sharing – Great for weeknights, potlucks, or feeding a crowd.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
All-purpose flour – The base for soft and fluffy dough.
Baking powder – Gives the bread its airy puff when fried.
Salt – Enhances the flavor of the dough.
Hot water – Helps form a tender, sticky dough.
Vegetable oil – Used for frying until perfectly golden.
Toppings – Chili beans, taco meat, lettuce, tomato, avocado, olives—or anything you love on tacos.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use hot water – It helps activate the baking powder and makes the dough easier to knead.
Don’t overwork the dough – Mix just until combined for a soft texture.
Let it rest – Resting the dough helps it relax and puff better when fried.
Monitor oil temp – Keep oil at 350°F to avoid greasy or burnt bread.
Drain well – Set fried bread on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
How to Make Fry Bread Tacos
Step 1: Mix the Dough
In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
Add hot water and mix by hand until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
Cover and let rest for 10 minutes.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
While the dough rests, fill a skillet with 1–2 inches of vegetable oil.
Heat over medium-high until the temperature reaches 350°F (175°C).
Step 3: Form the Rounds
Break off pieces of dough about the size of a golf ball.
Roll into smooth balls.
Step 4: Flatten the Dough
On a floured surface, roll each dough ball into a 6–7 inch round, about ¼ inch thick.
Step 5: Fry the Bread
Working in batches, carefully place dough rounds in the hot oil.
Fry until golden and puffed, about 20 seconds per side.
Flip and cook the other side for another 10–20 seconds.
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 6: Keep Warm
Keep the cooked fry bread warm in a low oven (about 200°F) while you finish frying the rest.
Step 7: Assemble and Serve
Top each fry bread with chili beans, taco meat, lettuce, tomato, avocado, olives—or whatever your heart desires.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
What to Serve It With
Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice
Fresh pico de gallo or salsa
Guacamole and tortilla chips
Sour cream or chipotle crema
Pickled jalapeños for some heat
Variations / Substitutions
Vegetarian version – Skip the meat and double up on beans, cheese, and veggies.
Cheesy twist – Add shredded cheese directly to the dough before frying.
Spicy upgrade – Mix chili flakes into the dough or add spicy taco sauce.
Sweet fry bread – Omit toppings and dust the warm bread with cinnamon sugar.
Gluten-free option – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the dough.
Storage & Leftovers
Fry bread – Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temp for up to 2 days.
Reheat – Warm in the oven at 300°F for 5–7 minutes to regain crispiness.
Freezer – Freeze cooked bread between parchment sheets in a zip-top bag.
Reheat in the oven or air fryer.
Toppings – Store separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours.
Let it come to room temp before frying.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough?
Use a thermometer. If unavailable, drop a small piece of dough into the oil—if it sizzles and floats, it’s ready.
Can I use self-rising flour?
Yes, but skip the baking powder and salt in the dough.
Why didn’t my bread puff up?
The oil might not have been hot enough. Make sure it’s at 350°F before frying.
Can I bake instead of fry?
This recipe is best fried. Baking won’t produce the same puff or texture.
How thin should I roll the dough?
About ¼ inch thick—too thin and it won’t puff, too thick and it stays doughy.
Is this the same as Navajo fry bread?
It’s a similar concept, but toppings and dough variations may differ based on regional or cultural recipes.
Final Thoughts
These Fry Bread Tacos are the ultimate comfort food—warm, golden, and endlessly customizable.
From the first crispy bite to the last messy, loaded mouthful, they bring joy to every taco lover at the table.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, this recipe is pure homemade happiness.
