Navajo Tacos (Indian Fry Bread) | Crispy, Fluffy, and Loaded with Flavor

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting, and incredibly satisfying dish that’s rooted in tradition and bursting with flavor, look no further than Navajo Tacos made with Indian Fry Bread. This dish combines fluffy, golden fry bread with savory toppings like seasoned beef, beans, lettuce, cheese, and sour cream—or sweet toppings like honey and powdered sugar for a dessert version. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find everything you need to make the perfect Navajo tacos: ingredients, tips, variations, FAQs, and detailed step-by-step instructions.

What Are Navajo Tacos?

Navajo Tacos, also known as Indian Tacos, are a Southwestern Native American dish made by topping a round of golden, crispy Indian Fry Bread with a variety of savory or sweet toppings. The fry bread is deep-fried until puffy and slightly crispy on the outside while staying soft and fluffy on the inside. Traditionally topped with seasoned ground beef, beans, lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese, it’s a comfort food classic with rich cultural roots.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy & Fluffy Fry Bread: Light, airy inside with a golden, crisp exterior—better than tortillas or store-bought shells.
Versatile Toppings: Make it savory for lunch/dinner or sweet for a fun dessert treat.
Authentic Yet Easy: Traditional flavor using pantry ingredients—no yeast required!
Perfect for Feeding a Crowd: This recipe makes 12 fry breads, ideal for parties and family dinners.

Ingredients

For the Fry Bread:

3 cups all-purpose flour – the base for the dough
4½ teaspoons baking powder – makes the bread puff up
1 teaspoon kosher salt – enhances flavor
2 tablespoons softened butter or ghee – for tenderness and richness
1¼ cups whole milk – binds the dough and keeps it soft
3 cups vegetable oil – for deep frying

For the Savory Toppings:

1 lb ground beef (80/20) – juicy and flavorful
2 tablespoons steak fajita seasoning (or taco seasoning) – for bold flavor
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained – adds heartiness and texture
2 cups shredded iceberg lettuce – freshness and crunch
3 plum tomatoes, diced – juicy and bright
Sour cream – cool and creamy finish
Queso sauce or shredded cheese – adds richness

Optional Sweet Version:

Honey – drizzle on warm fry bread
Powdered sugar – dusted on top

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Fry Bread Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix with your hands or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Make a well in the center, pour in the milk, and stir until a shaggy dough forms.

Knead gently for 1–2 minutes until smooth. Do not overwork the dough. Cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for 15 minutes—this allows the gluten to relax and makes rolling easier.

2. Shape the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a thick log and divide into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then use a rolling pin to flatten into 6-inch circles. Prick each circle with a fork a few times to prevent overly large bubbles during frying.

3. Fry the Bread

Heat 3 cups of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower one dough circle into the hot oil. Fry for about 30 seconds on one side, then flip and fry the other side for another 30–45 seconds until golden brown and puffed.

For taco shells: after the first flip, gently fold the fry bread into a taco shape using tongs, holding for a few seconds so it keeps its form. Drain on paper towels.

Repeat with remaining dough, adjusting heat to maintain oil temperature.

4. Cook the Ground Beef

In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease. Stir in the steak fajita seasoning (or taco seasoning) and 2–3 tablespoons of water. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until thickened and flavorful.

Warm the black beans in a separate saucepan or microwave.

5. Assemble Your Navajo Tacos

Place one fry bread on a plate. Top with a generous spoonful of seasoned beef, followed by black beans, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, queso sauce or cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.

6. Make the Sweet Version (Optional)

For a sweet dessert variation, serve the warm fry bread with a drizzle of honey and a light dusting of powdered sugar. You can also add cinnamon or fruit preserves for extra flavor.

Tips for Perfect Fry Bread

Resting is Key: Don’t skip the 15-minute rest—it helps the dough roll out smoothly and fry evenly.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry 1–2 pieces at a time to maintain oil temperature and avoid soggy bread.
Check Oil Temperature: Too hot, and the bread will burn outside but stay raw inside; too cool, and it will absorb oil. Homemade Samoas Girl Scout Cookies
Keep Warm in the Oven: Store finished fry bread in a warm oven (200°F) while you fry the rest.

Topping Variations

Tex-Mex Style: Add jalapeños, avocado slices, corn, and chipotle sauce.
Breakfast Navajo Taco: Top with scrambled eggs, sausage, and hot sauce.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the beef and load with beans, guacamole, and grilled veggies.
Dessert Twist: Serve with Nutella, banana slices, and powdered sugar.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the origin of Indian Fry Bread?

Fry bread originated in Native American communities, especially the Navajo Nation, during the 19th century. It has become both a cultural symbol and a beloved traditional dish.

Can I make fry bread in advance?

Yes. Store cooked fry bread in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to crisp up.

Can I bake instead of fry?

While possible, baking will not achieve the same puffed, crispy texture. Frying is key to traditional results.

What oil is best for frying?

Neutral oils with high smoke points like vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil are ideal.

Conclusion

Whether you’re enjoying a savory, taco-loaded version or a sweet dessert treat, Navajo Tacos with Indian Fry Bread are a flavorful, satisfying, and versatile dish you’ll want to make again and again. With crispy golden bread and your choice of toppings, this recipe brings authentic flavor and creative flexibility to your kitchen. It’s perfect for family dinners, weekend gatherings, or just a fun change from the usual tacos.