Introduction to Bacon Weave Taco Shells
Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re anything like me, you know that sometimes, life calls for a little creativity in the kitchen. That’s where these Bacon Weave Taco Shells come in! Imagine crispy, savory bacon cradling all your favorite taco fillings. It’s a quick solution for a busy day or a fun dish to impress your loved ones. Plus, who can resist the allure of bacon? These taco shells are not just a meal; they’re an experience. So, let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!
Why You’ll Love This Bacon Weave Taco Shells
These Bacon Weave Taco Shells are a game-changer for taco night! They’re incredibly easy to make, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. The taste? Oh, it’s a flavor explosion! The crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with your favorite fillings. Plus, they’re low-carb, making them a guilt-free indulgence. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a party, these shells will steal the show!
Ingredients for Bacon Weave Taco Shells
To create these mouthwatering Bacon Weave Taco Shells, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Bacon slices: Thin-cut bacon is essential for weaving. It cooks evenly and crisps up nicely, giving you that perfect taco shell texture.
- Paper towels: These are your best friend for soaking up excess grease. Trust me, you’ll want to keep things crispy and not soggy!
- Aluminum foil: This can be used to shape your taco shells if you don’t have a taco rack. It’s a handy alternative that works just as well.
- Taco rack or rolling pin: If you have a taco rack, it’s perfect for shaping your bacon weave into a shell. A rolling pin can also do the trick if you’re in a pinch.
Feel free to get creative with your fillings! You can use ground beef, chicken, or even veggies for a lighter option. The exact quantities for these ingredients are at the bottom of the article, ready for you to print out and take to the store!
How to Make Bacon Weave Taco Shells
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! Making Bacon Weave Taco Shells is a fun and straightforward process. Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to taco bliss!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy bacon texture. While the oven warms up, you can prepare your baking sheet. Line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!
Create the Bacon Weave
Next, it’s time to get weaving! For each taco shell, lay out 4 slices of bacon vertically on the baking sheet. Make sure they slightly overlap. This overlap is key to holding everything together. Then, take 4 more slices and weave them horizontally over and under the vertical slices. It’s like a delicious game of tic-tac-toe, but way tastier!
Repeat this process until you have 4 weaves total. Each one will be a taco shell waiting to be filled with your favorite goodies. Don’t worry if it looks a bit messy; the bacon will shrink and tighten as it cooks!
Bake the Weaves
Now, let’s bake those beauties! Place another baking sheet on top of the bacon weaves. This step is optional, but it helps keep the bacon flat while baking. Pop them in the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes. You want the bacon to be browned but still flexible. Keep an eye on them; nobody likes burnt bacon!
Shape the Taco Shells
Once the bacon is cooked to perfection, it’s time to shape your taco shells. While they’re still warm, carefully drape each bacon weave over a taco rack, rolling pin, or even a piece of aluminum foil shaped like a taco. This is where the magic happens! Let them cool for about 5–10 minutes until they firm up. You’ll be amazed at how sturdy they become!
Fill and Serve
Finally, it’s time for the best part—filling your Bacon Weave Taco Shells! Load them up with your favorite fillings. Ground beef, lettuce, cheese, tomatoes, and sour cream are all fantastic choices. The possibilities are endless! Serve them immediately and watch your friends and family devour these delicious creations. Enjoy every crispy, savory bite!
Tips for Success
- Use thin-cut bacon for easier weaving and crispier shells.
- Don’t rush the baking; keep an eye on the bacon to avoid burning.
- Experiment with different fillings to find your favorite flavor combinations.
- For extra crunch, bake the shells a bit longer, but watch closely!
- Let the shells cool completely before filling to maintain their shape.
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet: Essential for cooking the bacon weaves. A rimmed sheet helps catch any grease.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Taco rack: Perfect for shaping your shells. A rolling pin or aluminum foil can work as alternatives.
- Paper towels: Great for soaking up excess grease and keeping things crispy.
Variations
- Spicy Bacon Weave: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the bacon before weaving for a kick of heat.
- Cheesy Bacon Weave: Mix shredded cheese into the bacon weave for an extra cheesy flavor. Cheddar or pepper jack work wonderfully!
- Herbed Bacon Weave: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into your fillings for a burst of freshness.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap bacon for crispy baked eggplant or zucchini strips for a delicious plant-based taco shell.
- Sweet and Savory: Try adding a drizzle of honey or maple syrup over the bacon before baking for a sweet twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Fresh Salsa: A zesty salsa pairs perfectly with the rich bacon flavor.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds a delightful contrast to the crispy shells.
- Chilled Beverages: Serve with cold drinks like margaritas or iced tea for a refreshing touch.
- Colorful Garnishes: Top with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or jalapeños for a pop of color.
- Platter Presentation: Arrange the tacos on a vibrant platter for an eye-catching display.
FAQs about Bacon Weave Taco Shells
Can I make Bacon Weave Taco Shells ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the bacon weaves in advance and store them in the fridge. Just reheat them in the oven before filling. This makes for a quick meal on busy nights!
What fillings work best with Bacon Weave Taco Shells?
The beauty of these Bacon Weave Taco Shells is their versatility! Ground beef, shredded chicken, or even grilled veggies are fantastic options. Don’t forget the toppings like cheese, lettuce, and salsa!
How do I keep the bacon from getting soggy?
To keep your bacon crispy, make sure to drain excess grease with paper towels after baking. Also, fill the shells just before serving to maintain that delightful crunch!
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, you can! Turkey bacon is a great alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that it may not crisp up as well as traditional bacon.
Are Bacon Weave Taco Shells suitable for a low-carb diet?
Definitely! These Bacon Weave Taco Shells are low in carbs, making them a perfect choice for anyone following a low-carb or keto diet. Enjoy without the guilt!
Final Thoughts
Creating Bacon Weave Taco Shells is more than just cooking; it’s about crafting a memorable experience. The joy of weaving bacon into a delicious shell is a culinary adventure that brings out the kid in all of us. Each bite is a delightful crunch, bursting with flavor and creativity. Whether you’re hosting a taco night or simply treating yourself, these shells are sure to impress. So gather your loved ones, fill those crispy creations, and savor the laughter and joy that comes with every delicious bite. Trust me, you’ll be making these again and again!
Print
Bacon Weave Taco Shells: A Tasty Twist on Tacos!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 shells 1x
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
Bacon Weave Taco Shells are a delicious and creative twist on traditional tacos, made entirely from bacon.
Ingredients
- 32 thin-cut bacon slices (8 slices per shell)
- Paper towels
- Aluminum foil, or a taco rack / rolling pin for shaping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Create the bacon weave: For each shell, lay 4 slices of bacon vertically on the baking sheet, slightly overlapping.
- Weave 4 more slices horizontally over and under the vertical slices to form a tight square weave.
- Repeat to make 4 weaves total.
- Bake flat: Place another baking sheet on top (optional, for extra-flat weaves) and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until bacon is browned but still flexible.
- Shape the shells: While still warm, carefully drape each bacon weave over a taco rack, rolling pin, or aluminum foil form to create the taco shell shape.
- Let cool for 5–10 minutes until firm.
- Fill and serve: Add your favorite taco fillings (ground beef, lettuce, cheese, tomatoes, sour cream, etc.) and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a crispier shell, bake a little longer but be careful not to burn the bacon.
- Experiment with different fillings to customize your tacos.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 shell
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
