These Navajo Tacos are a comforting, protein-packed meal that blends the warmth of New Mexican chile sauce with the heartiness of ground beef and pinto beans. Served on crispy Indian fry bread, they offer a satisfying crunch and savory depth that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. The homemade red chile sauce adds a rich, smoky kick, while fresh toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and grated cheddar bring balance and freshness. Easy to assemble and deeply flavorful, this dish is a crowd-pleaser thatâÂÂs as simple as it is delicious.
Navajo Tacos
Description
These Navajo Tacos are a comforting, protein-packed meal that blends the warmth of New Mexican chile sauce with the heartiness of ground beef and pinto beans. Served on crispy Indian fry bread, they offer a satisfying crunch and savory depth that&# 226;ÂÂs perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. The homemade red chile sauce adds a rich, smoky kick, while fresh toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and grated cheddar bring balance and freshness. Easy to assemble and deeply flavorful, this dish is a crowd-pleaser thatâÂÂs as simple as it is delicious.Ingredients
Directions
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Remove stems and seeds from dried chiles, then tear into pieces.
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Sauté chopped onion in 1 tablespoon of oil until soft and translucent.
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Add chile pieces and 3 cups of water to the pot with the onions.
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Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes until chiles are soft.
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Blend the chile mixture until smooth to create the red chile sauce.
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In a separate skillet, sauté ground beef in remaining oil until browned; drain excess fat.
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Combine browned beef, chile sauce, and cooked pinto beans in a large pot.
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Heat the mixture over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
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Place a piece of fry bread on each plate.
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Spoon the warm beef and bean mixture onto each piece of fry bread.
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Top with shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, and grated cheddar cheese.
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Serve immediately while warm.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 1076.5kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 27.9g43%
- Saturated Fat 7.6g38%
- Cholesterol 66.4mg23%
- Sodium 1053.1mg44%
- Total Carbohydrate 148.5g50%
- Dietary Fiber 21.9g88%
- Sugars 12.6g
- Protein 56.6g114%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: Leftover bean and beef mixture can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water.
Substitutions: If fresh Indian fry bread is unavailable, you can use store-bought flatbreads or even corn tortillas (though they are smaller). For a milder sauce, remove more seeds from the chiles or add a splash of apple cider vinegar to balance heat.
Tips: For extra flavor, add a pinch of cumin or garlic powder to the beef while browning. Ensure the chile sauce is fully blended to avoid chunks in the final dish.
Variations: Add diced green chiles or corn to the bean mixture for extra texture and sweetness.