If you love tacos and are searching for a delicious, crispy, and satisfying plant-based alternative, then these Crispy Vegan Potato Tacos are perfect for you! Inspired by the beloved Tacos Dorados, these golden-brown delights are filled with a flavorful mashed potato mixture, pan-fried or baked to perfection, and topped with fresh, vibrant toppings. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring vegan taco recipes, this dish will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make these vegan potato tacos, provide tips on achieving the perfect crunch, and suggest mouthwatering toppings and variations. Get ready to enjoy one of the best vegan Mexican recipes that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor!
Why You’ll Love These Crispy Vegan Potato Tacos
1. Crispy and Flavorful
The combination of creamy mashed potatoes and a crunchy taco shell creates an irresistible texture contrast.
2. Easy to Make
This easy taco recipe requires just a few ingredients and simple steps.
3. Affordable Ingredients
Made primarily from potatoes, corn tortillas, and seasonings, this recipe is budget-friendly and accessible.
4. Customizable
You can add various seasonings, fillings, and toppings to make it your own!
5. Perfect for Any Occasion
Serve these tacos for lunch, dinner, or even as a fun party appetizer.
Ingredients for Crispy Vegan Potato Tacos
For the Potato Filling:
- 3 large russet potatoes (or 4 medium-sized potatoes)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy flavor)
- 2 tablespoons plant-based milk or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
For the Tacos:
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying or brushing if baking)
Toppings & Garnishes:
- Shredded lettuce or cabbage
- Diced tomatoes
- Guacamole or sliced avocado
- Pickled red onions
- Fresh cilantro
- Salsa or hot sauce
- Dairy-free sour cream
- Vegan cheese (optional)
How to Make Crispy Vegan Potato Tacos
Step 1: Prepare the Potato Filling
- Peel and chop the potatoes into small chunks.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, until they are fork-tender.
- Drain the potatoes and transfer them to a mixing bowl.
- Add salt, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, nutritional yeast (if using), plant-based milk, and olive oil.
- Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. If needed, add more plant-based milk to achieve a spreadable consistency.
- Stir in chopped cilantro for extra freshness and set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Tacos
- Warm the corn tortillas in a dry pan or microwave for a few seconds to make them more pliable.
- Spread about 2 tablespoons of the mashed potato mixture onto one half of each tortilla.
- Fold the tortilla over to create a half-moon shape and gently press to seal.
Step 3: Cook the Tacos
Option 1: Pan-Frying (for Ultimate Crispiness)
- Heat about 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Place the folded tacos in the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Option 2: Baking (Healthier Alternative)
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Lightly brush or spray both sides of the tacos with vegetable oil and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.
Option 3: Air Frying (Crispy & Oil-Free!)
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray the tacos with oil and place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Serving and Toppings
Once your crispy potato tacos are ready, load them up with your favorite toppings! Here are some delicious ideas:
- Classic Style – Shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, salsa, and guacamole.
- Spicy Kick – Drizzle with hot sauce, pickled jalapeños, and spicy salsa.
- Cheesy Delight – Sprinkle with vegan cheese and dairy-free sour cream.
- Street Style – Top with chopped onions, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
Pair with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a side of fresh salsa for a complete meal!
Tips for the Best Crispy Potato Tacos
1. Use the Right Potatoes
- Russet potatoes work best for a fluffy texture, but you can also use sweet potatoes for a twist on sweet potato tacos.
2. Don’t Overfill the Tacos
- Too much filling can cause the tacos to break apart while cooking. Use just enough to spread a thin layer.
3. Keep Tortillas Warm Before Folding
- Cold tortillas may crack, so heat them up slightly before assembling.
4. Serve Immediately for Maximum Crispiness
- These tacos taste best fresh out of the pan, oven, or air fryer.
5. Experiment with Spices
- Feel free to add chipotle powder, taco seasoning, or chili flakes for extra flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
- Sweet Potato Version – Swap russet potatoes for mashed sweet potatoes to make sweet potato tacos.
- Bean & Potato Mix – Add mashed black beans or pinto beans to the filling for extra protein.
- Gluten-Free Option – Ensure you’re using 100% gluten-free corn tortillas.
- Cheesy Filling – Mix in vegan cheese shreds with the mashed potatoes for an extra cheesy bite.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare and assemble the tacos, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. For longer storage, freeze them and reheat in the oven or air fryer.
2. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet, oven, or air fryer for best results.
3. Can I Make These Oil-Free?
Absolutely! Use the baking or air-frying method without oil for a crispy, healthier version.
4. What Sides Pair Well with These Tacos?
Try them with Mexican street corn, black bean salad, guacamole, or refried beans.
Final Thoughts
These Crispy Vegan Potato Tacos are a must-try if you love vegetarian Mexican dishes that are simple, satisfying, and full of flavor. Whether you’re new to plant-based eating or a long-time vegan, this recipe delivers a delicious crunch in every bite. Try it today and let us know how you like it!
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share, pin, and comment below! Happy cooking! 🌮✨
English 
French 
Spanish 
Portuguese