Description
20-Minute Chorizo Tacos
Transform your taco night with these easy and flavorful Chorizo Tacos! Originating from Spanish and Mexican culinary traditions, chorizo is a rich, savory sausage seasoned with paprika, garlic, and chili peppers. In this recipe, chorizo is cooked with onion, served in warm corn tortillas, and topped simply with raw onion, cilantro, and avocado crema. Perfect for a quick dinner in just 20 minutes!
1 Tbsp light oil (grapeseed, avocado, or canola)
1 large white onion, diced, divided
1 lb chorizo sausage, casings removed
10-12 corn tortillas
Lime wedges
Fresh cilantro
Avocado crema
Directions:
1. Sauté onion in oil for 3-4 mins.
2. Add chorizo; cook 7-10 mins.
3. Warm tortillas; assemble with chorizo, crema, onion, and cilantro.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Kcal: 370 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect chorizo tacos every time. First, gather all ingredients. Heat 1 tablespoon of light oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add half of your diced white onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add 1 lb of chorizo sausage, removed from its casings, to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break the chorizo into small crumbles as it cooks. Continue cooking for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chorizo is fully cooked and browned. While the chorizo cooks, warm your 10-12 corn tortillas. You can do this directly over a low gas flame for a few seconds per side, in a dry skillet, or wrapped in a damp towel and microwaved for 30 seconds. Keep them warm in a towel-lined basket.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cooked chorizo mixture immediately with the warm tortillas and your chosen toppings. Essential toppings include the remaining raw diced white onion, fresh cilantro leaves, and lime wedges for squeezing. The creamy avocado crema is a perfect cooling contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving with sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple cabbage slaw. A light, crisp beer or a margarita pairs wonderfully with the rich, spicy flavors.
How-to Summary
In summary: Sauté half a diced onion in oil. Add crumbled chorizo and cook until browned. Warm corn tortillas. Assemble tacos by filling tortillas with the chorizo mixture and topping with avocado crema, raw onion, and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with lime wedges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of chorizo? Yes. Mexican chorizo is typically raw and seasoned with vinegar and chilies, while Spanish chorizo is often cured and smoked. For this recipe, use raw Mexican-style chorizo for the intended texture and flavor.
How do I make the avocado crema? Simply blend one ripe avocado with 1/2 cup of sour cream or Mexican crema, the juice of one lime, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
What can I use instead of corn tortillas? Flour tortillas are a great alternative for a softer taco. For a low-carb option, use large lettuce leaves like romaine or butter lettuce as shells.
How can I make this recipe less spicy? Choose a mild chorizo variety. The avocado crema and the cool raw onion will also help balance the heat from the sausage.
Can I prepare the chorizo filling ahead of time? Absolutely. Cook the chorizo and onion mixture, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best results. First, do not skip warming the tortillas, as cold tortillas crack and lack flavor. Second, do not overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chorizo, as this will steam the meat instead of browning it. Third, avoid using the chorizo straight from the fridge; letting it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes helps it cook more evenly. Finally, do not overcomplicate the toppings—the simplicity of onion, cilantro, and crema is key to letting the chorizo shine.
Conclusion
These 20-minute chorizo tacos are the ultimate solution for a fast, flavorful, and satisfying weeknight dinner. By combining richly spiced sausage with simple, fresh toppings, you create a meal that feels far from basic. This recipe is endlessly adaptable, reliably quick, and sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Give it a try tonight and elevate your taco night with minimal effort and maximum taste.