The Best Veggie Tacos Ever

The scent of warm tortillas, spiced “meat,” and fresh toppings – it always takes me back to summer evenings on the patio with my family. When my daughters went through a phase of refusing to eat meat but still wanted tacos, I knew I had to get creative. These veggie tacos were the surprising answer, and now, they’re a permanent fixture on our dinner rotation, even when no one’s feeling particularly meat-averse. The vibrant flavors and satisfying textures have converted even the most skeptical palates.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Yields: 8 tacos
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon sofrito sauce
• 1 packet sazon goya
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 12 ounces Morningstar Farms Meal Starters Grillers recipe crumbles
• 8 taco shells
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 tomato, diced
• 8 ounces sour cream
• 7 ounces guacamole
• 1 cup four-cheese Mexican blend cheese, shredded

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Microwave
• Cutting board
• Knife

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the “meat” filling. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

2. Add the sofrito sauce, sazon goya, and cayenne pepper to the heated oil. Sauté these spices together for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and the sofrito begins to soften. This step is crucial for building a flavorful base for your veggie tacos.

3. Add the Morningstar Farms Meal Starters Grillers recipe crumbles to the skillet. Break up any large clumps with a spatula.

4. Cook the mixture over medium heat for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The “meat” should be heated through and slightly browned. Be careful not to overcook the crumbles, as they can become dry.

5. While the “meat” is cooking, prepare the taco shells. Gently heat the taco shells in the microwave for about 20 seconds, or according to package directions. This will make them more pliable and less likely to break when filled.

6. Wash and thoroughly dry the lettuce. Finely shred it and set aside.

7. Wash the tomato, remove the core, and dice into small pieces. Set aside.

8. Now, it’s time to assemble the tacos! Take a warmed taco shell and begin by adding a generous spoonful of the cooked Morningstar Farms Meal Starters Griller crumbles.

9. Top the “meat” with a dollop of sour cream, followed by a spoonful of guacamole.

10. Sprinkle the shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes over the sour cream and guacamole.

11. Finally, add a sprinkle of the four-cheese Mexican blend cheese to each taco.

12. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preference. If you like a milder taco, reduce or eliminate the cayenne pepper altogether. For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables to the “meat” mixture, such as diced bell peppers, onions, or corn. Sauté these vegetables with the sofrito sauce for best results.
• Make-Ahead Tip: The “meat” filling can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it in a skillet before assembling the tacos.
• Flavor Boost: For a deeper, more complex flavor, try adding a splash of lime juice or a dash of hot sauce to the “meat” mixture during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Crispy Shells: If you prefer crispy taco shells, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned and crispy. Watch them carefully to prevent burning.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these veggie tacos immediately after assembling to enjoy the best texture and flavor. Garnish with extra sour cream, guacamole, or a sprinkle of cilantro, if desired.

Leftover “meat” filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving. Assembled tacos are best enjoyed immediately, as the shells can become soggy if stored for too long.

I do not recommend freezing the assembled tacos. However, the “meat” filling can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	212.6 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	152 g	72%
Total Fat	16.9 g	26%
Saturated Fat	7.8 g	39%
Cholesterol	32.9 mg	10%
Sodium	262.1 mg	10%
Total Carbohydrate	10.4 g	3%
Dietary Fiber	0.9 g	3%
Sugars	2.4 g	9%
Protein	5.3 g	10%

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegan Tacos: Substitute the sour cream and cheese with vegan alternatives for a completely vegan taco.
• Gluten-Free Tacos: Use gluten-free taco shells. Corn tortillas also work well.
• Spicy Tacos: Add a pinch of chipotle powder or a few drops of hot sauce to the “meat” mixture for an extra kick.
• Fresh Toppings: Experiment with different toppings, such as shredded cabbage, pickled onions, or pico de gallo.
• Bean Tacos: Substitute the Morningstar Farms Grillers with black beans or pinto beans for a different flavor and texture. Mash the beans slightly with a fork for a creamier filling.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different type of meat substitute?
A: Absolutely! Any ground meat substitute will work well in this recipe. Experiment with different brands and flavors to find your favorite.

Q: How can I prevent the taco shells from breaking?
A: Warming the taco shells in the microwave or oven makes them more pliable and less likely to break when filled. Don’t overheat, or they will become brittle.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, the “meat” filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat before assembling the tacos.

Q: What’s a good side dish to serve with these tacos?
A: These tacos pair well with Mexican rice, black beans, or a simple side salad.

Q: Can I add more vegetables to the filling?
A: Definitely! Diced bell peppers, onions, corn, and zucchini are all great additions to the “meat” mixture. Sauté them with the sofrito sauce for best results.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy these veggie tacos as much as my family does! They’re a fun, flavorful, and healthy way to enjoy a classic Mexican dish. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings and variations to create your own signature taco. If you give this recipe a try, let me know what you think in the comments below! And maybe, just maybe, you’ll find yourself craving these meatless tacos more than the traditional kind.