When it comes to hard taco shells, some people wonder if you need to heat them up before using them or if you can just use them straight out of the package. Here’s a quick look at whether or not you need to heat hard taco shells.
Quick Answer
You don’t need to heat up hard taco shells before using them. Hard taco shells are perfectly fine to use straight out of the package without any additional heating.
Do You Have to Heat Up Hard Taco Shells?
Heating up hard taco shells before using them is completely optional. Here are some key points on whether or not you need to heat them:
- Hard taco shells are already cooked and crunchy when you purchase them. They don’t require any additional cooking or crisping before use.
- Most brands of hard taco shells are designed to be used straight from the package without heating.
- You can choose to lightly warm hard taco shells in the oven or microwave if you prefer, but this is not required.
- Heating may help enhance the flavor and make the shells a bit more crisp, but it is not essential.
- Both heated and unheated hard taco shells will still work fine for building tacos.
In summary, heating hard taco shells before use is optional and comes down to personal preference. Many people use them straight from the package with no issues.
Reasons You May Want to Heat Them
While not required, some people still opt to heat up store-bought hard taco shells before serving. Here are some of the reasons why:
- Enhanced flavor: Heating can help bring out the flavors of the shells and make them taste more freshly made.
- Improved crispiness: A quick heat helps crisp up the shells and restore crunch if they have gotten a bit stale.
- Warmth: Heated shells can be nice in colder weather or if you want warm tacos.
- Avoid breakage: Warming makes the shells a bit more pliable so they may be less prone to cracking or breaking.
While not mandatory, heating allows you to maximize the flavor, texture, and performance of store-bought hard taco shells if desired.
How to Heat Up Hard Taco Shells
If you do want to heat your hard taco shells before use, here are two easy methods:
Oven
Preheat your oven to 300°F. Arrange the taco shells on a baking sheet in a single layer and place in the oven for 2-3 minutes until warmed through. Watch carefully to avoid burning the shells.
Microwave
Place taco shells on a microwave-safe plate in a single layer. Microwave on high for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Check and rotate the shells halfway through. Microwave just until slightly warm, being careful not to make them brittle.
Both oven and microwave heating provide an effortless way to quickly bring your hard taco shells up to temperature before filling them. Use a lower heat setting and keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Serving and Storing Hard Taco Shells
Here are some tips for serving and storing hard taco shells:
- If heating the shells, serve immediately once heated for best texture.
- If not heating them, use within a couple months for best quality and freshness.
- Store unused taco shells in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Avoid storing hard taco shells in very humid environments, as this can make them soft.
- Gently stack the shells, using paper towels between layers to prevent breakage.
Properly stored, unopened packages of hard taco shells will stay fresh for several months past any expiry dates on the package. Once opened, try to use them within a couple weeks.
Filling and Serving Hard Shell Tacos
Hard shell tacos allow for endless filling possibilities. Here are some tips for getting the most of out these crispy tacos:
- Wrap hard shells in paper towels while building tacos to absorb grease.
- Pre-heat any hot fillings so the shells don’t get soggy.
- Include moist ingredients like tomatoes, lettuce, and cheese in moderation.
- Fill the bottom of the shell more generously to weigh it down.
- Don’t overstuff – less is more when it comes to hard shell tacos.
- Consider doubling up shells for very messy or moist fillings.
Popular taco fillings include seasoned ground beef or turkey, pulled chicken, grilled shrimp, stewed beans, and grilled veggies. Top with shredded cheese, salsa, guacamole, cilantro, and other favorite extras.
When serving hard shell tacos, provide lots of napkins or paper towels and maybe even a fork and knife to make eating easier. Set out any extra fillings and garnishes so guests can customize their tacos.
Fun Ways to Use Hard Taco Shells
Beyond just making tacos, here are some fun ways to use hard taco shells:
- Taco salad – Break shells into pieces and use as crunchy topping on taco-themed salads.
- Taco bowls – Fill an upright taco shell with salad or rice bowl ingredients.
- Nachos – Break shells into chips and top with cheese, beans, salsa and other nacho toppings.
- Chilaquiles – Use shells in place of tortilla chips for chilaquiles.
- Dessert shells – Fill sweetened shells with fruit, pudding, ice cream or other dessert fillings.
With some creativity, hard taco shells can be used in place of tortilla chips or potato chips in a variety of recipes.
Troubleshooting Hard Shell Tacos
Hard shell tacos are fun party food but can sometimes be messy to eat. Here are some tips if you run into any issues:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Shells break or crack easily | Heat shells before filling, fill bottom of shell first to weigh it down, use extra care when handling |
| Greasy shells | Wrap shells in paper towels while filling to absorb grease, blot with napkins before eating |
| Fillings make shell soggy | Limit wet ingredients, pre-heat hot ingredients, double up shells if needed |
| Overstuffed shells | Don’t overfill shells, use less filling but double up on shells if needed |
| Messy to eat | Provide napkins, forks, and knives, set out extra fillings so diners can add more as needed |
With a few simple precautions, you can enjoy all the crunch and fun of hard tacos with minimal mess!
Conclusion
At the end of the day, heating hard taco shells before using them is completely optional. While you can certainly heat them up in the oven or microwave to enhance their flavor and texture, you can also just as easily use them straight from the package with no issues. Storing the shells properly and taking some care when filling and serving them can help prevent common problems. Hard shell tacos are a fun and convenient way to add some crunch to your next Mexican meal or party!