Ortega taco shells are a popular taco shell option for making homemade tacos. They come in both soft and hard varieties. The hard taco shells need to be heated before using to make them crisp and help enhance the flavor. There are a few different methods you can use to heat Ortega hard taco shells and prepare them for taco night.
Oven
One of the easiest ways to heat Ortega hard taco shells is in the oven. This allows you to heat multiple taco shells evenly at one time. Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
- Arrange taco shells in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 5-10 minutes, checking frequently, until shells are warmed through and crispy.
- Remove from oven and fill shells with desired taco fillings.
The oven allows the taco shells to warm gradually without burning. Just be sure to keep an eye on them as oven temperatures can vary. Heating them for too long can cause the shells to burn or become bitter.
Microwave
The microwave provides a quick way to heat Ortega taco shells in just 1-2 minutes. Here are the steps:
- Place taco shells on a microwave-safe plate in a single layer.
- Microwave on high for 30 seconds. Check shells and continue microwaving in 30 second intervals until warmed through.
- Allow shells to sit for 30 seconds before removing from microwave as they will continue heating from residual heat.
- Fill shells with desired taco fillings.
The microwave can sometimes make hard taco shells a bit soggy. Placing a paper towel or paper plate between the shells and microwave plate can help absorb excess moisture. Just watch shells closely to avoid over-cooking.
Skillet
Heating Ortega taco shells in a skillet on the stovetop is a quick and easy method. Follow these simple steps:
- Place taco shells in a single layer in a dry non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Heat shells for 1-2 minutes, flipping halfway through, until warmed and slightly toasted.
- Transfer shells directly to a plate and fill with desired taco fillings while still warm.
Be careful not to leave shells unattended while cooking over direct heat. The skillet allows you to cook just the number of shells needed for serving and gives them a nice toasted flavor.
Toaster Oven
A toaster oven is great for heating up a small batch of Ortega taco shells. Here is how:
- Arrange 4-6 taco shells on the toaster oven rack.
- Set toaster oven to 350°F and toast for 3-5 minutes until hot and crispy.
- Check shells frequently to avoid over browning.
- Remove shells and fill while still warm.
The toaster oven directs heat from both sides for quick, even warming. Just be cautious not to heat the shells too long or they can become brittle.
Deep Fryer
Using a deep fryer produces crispy Ortega taco shells with a delicious crunch. Follow these safe frying steps:
- Heat oil to 350-375°F in a deep fryer or heavy pot.
- Fry 1-2 taco shells at a time for 15-30 seconds until crisped.
- Remove shells with tongs and allow excess oil to drain off.
- Fill shells immediately while still warm and crispy.
Frying gives the taco shells an extra crispy texture but does add additional calories from the oil. Use caution when working with hot oil to avoid burns or splatters.
Tips for Heating Ortega Taco Shells
Work in Small Batches
Only heat the number of taco shells you plan on using immediately. Heating too many at once can cause them to lose their crispness. Reheating hard taco shells causes them to become stale and soggy.
Rotate Shells
Be sure to rotate and flip the taco shells during heating to promote even warming on all sides. This helps prevent burning.
Keep an Eye on Shells
It’s easy for hard taco shells to burn, so stay nearby and set a timer to avoid overcooking. Check them frequently during the heating process.
Allow Shells to Cool Slightly
Let heated taco shells rest for 1-2 minutes after cooking. The shells will continue crisping from residual heat and are less likely to break when filling if not piping hot.
Use Support
Place taco shells over the edge of the baking sheet or plate when filling to support the crisp shell. You can also insert a soft taco to help strengthen the hard shell.
Stay Dry
Make sure hard taco shells are completely dry before heating. Any moisture causes steam which leads to soggy shells. Soften shells another day or crisp them up in the oven first.
Add Flavor
For extra flavor, lightly brush or spray taco shells with oil before heating. Chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and lime juice also add tasty flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you eat Ortega taco shells right out of the bag?
Ortega hard taco shells can be eaten right out of the bag but they will be stiff and brittle. It is best to heat them first to make them warm, crisp, and enhance their corn flavor. The heating process helps bring out the shells’ intended texture and taste.
How long do you bake Ortega taco shells?
In a 350°F oven, Ortega taco shells take 5-10 minutes to fully heat through and become crispy. Watch them closely to avoid burning. They may need less time if you only heat a few shells at once.
Can you refry Ortega taco shells?
It’s best to avoid refrying hard taco shells. They tend to become stale, soggy, and start to fall apart if cooked more than once. For fresher shells, only fry and fill the number needed per serving.
What is the healthiest way to heat taco shells?
The oven and toaster oven are the healthiest methods to heat Ortega taco shells without added calories or fat. Microwaving also avoids added oils. Deep frying adds flavor but also extra calories and fat due to the oil.
How do you keep taco shells crispy after heating?
Fill taco shells immediately after cooking while still warm. Only heat what you will use right away to avoid sogginess. Store any extra unheated shells in an airtight container. You can also place filled tacos in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes to recrisp the shells.
Can you eat soft taco shells without heating?
Yes, Ortega soft taco shells can be eaten right out of the package without heating. Many people prefer the softer, more pliable texture without heating. Soft shells don’t need to be warmed or crisped before using.
Conclusion
Heating Ortega hard taco shells before filling is a must for a satisfying crunch. The oven provides an easy hands-off approach while the skillet and toaster oven allow quick heating for a few shells. Microwaving is fast but can lead to sogginess. Deep frying adds bold flavor and crunch but also extra calories from oil. With a variety of cooking methods, you can achieve warm, crispy Ortega shells to fill with your favorite taco fixings any night of the week. Don’t forget to fill them while still warm and eat immediately before they lose their signature crispy texture.