10 Fun Taco Recipes Kids Can Easily Build Themselves

Looking for a fun way to get your kids involved in the kitchen? These 10 easy taco recipes let them build their own tasty creations, making mealtime enjoyable and interactive. With a variety of colorful ingredients and simple steps, everyone can customize their tacos just the way they like them. Let’s get building!

Taco Bar with Kid-Friendly Toppings

Setting up a taco bar is a fun and interactive way to let kids explore their taste buds while building their own delicious creations. With a variety of toppings available, they can mix and match to find their perfect flavor combination. The blend of fresh ingredients like tomatoes, cheese, and mango not only tastes great but also makes for a colorful presentation that kids will love.

This recipe is simple to prepare, allowing you to spend more time with your little ones as they enjoy the taco-building experience. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some nutritious ingredients without them even noticing!

Ingredients

• 12 small soft tortillas
• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup diced mango
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 avocado, sliced

Instructions

1. Cook the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey. Drain excess fat and add the taco seasoning, following package instructions. Stir well and cook until thickened.
2. Warm the Tortillas: In a separate pan or microwave, warm the tortillas until soft and pliable.
3. Set Up the Taco Bar: Arrange all toppings in bowls for easy access. Place the seasoned meat in a central bowl with tortillas around it.
4. Let Kids Build Their Tacos: Encourage kids to fill their tortillas with meat and their favorite toppings. Let them get creative!

DIY Mini Taco Bites

DIY Mini Taco Bites are a fun and tasty way for kids to enjoy taco night. These bite-sized treats are simple to make and allow little hands to assemble their own creations. The combination of soft tortillas, flavorful fillings, and colorful toppings makes each bite a delight.

With endless possibilities for customization, kids can choose their favorite ingredients and build a taco that suits their taste buds. The best part is that it’s easy enough for them to do it themselves, making it a perfect weekend activity!

Ingredients

• 8 small corn or flour tortillas
• 1 cup cooked ground beef or turkey
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped onions
• 1/4 cup sliced olives
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup salsa
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Instructions

1. Warm the tortillas: In a skillet or microwave, warm the tortillas until they are soft and pliable.
2. Prepare the filling: In a bowl, mix the cooked ground beef or turkey with your choice of spices for flavor, if desired.
3. Assemble the tacos: Place a small amount of the meat in the center of each tortilla. Top with shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, onions, and olives.
4. Add toppings: Allow kids to add their favorite toppings, such as sour cream or salsa, for extra flavor.
5. Garnish: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a fresh touch.
6. Serve: Arrange the mini tacos on a platter and let everyone enjoy their tasty creations!

Taco Salad Jars for Kids

Taco Salad Jars are a fun and interactive meal that kids can assemble themselves! Each jar is layered with colorful ingredients, making it not only tasty but visually appealing. The mix of flavors and textures keeps everything exciting, from the crunchy veggies to the creamy dressing.

This recipe is super simple, allowing kids to customize their jars with their favorite toppings. It’s a great way to encourage them to experiment with different flavors while enjoying a healthy meal.

Ingredients

• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1 cup chopped lettuce
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: tortilla chips for crunch

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse and drain the beans, and chop the tomatoes and lettuce. Gather all the ingredients.
2. Start Layering: In a mason jar, begin by adding a layer of black beans followed by kidney beans.
3. Add Corn and Tomatoes: Next, add a layer of corn and then a layer of diced tomatoes.
4. Layer with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the tomatoes.
5. Include Sour Cream: Add a layer of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess.
6. Add Greens: Top with chopped lettuce and finish with cilantro.
7. Season: Sprinkle taco seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Crunch It Up: If desired, pack some tortilla chips on the side for an extra crunch!
9. Serve: Close the jar and serve it to your kids for a fun and interactive meal.

Chicken and Cheese Quesadilla Tacos

Chicken and cheese quesadilla tacos are a fun and easy meal that kids will love to assemble. These tasty tacos combine the savory goodness of seasoned chicken with melted cheese, all wrapped up in a warm tortilla. They are perfect for quick lunches or a simple dinner, making them a great option for busy families.

The best part is that kids can help in the kitchen! With just a few ingredients, they can create their own personalized tacos. Add toppings like guacamole, salsa, or fresh veggies for extra flavor and crunch. It’s a delicious way to get everyone involved in mealtime.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
• 4 large flour tortillas
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
• 1/2 cup salsa
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with taco seasoning and a bit of salsa for flavor.
2. Assemble the Quesadillas: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil. Place one tortilla in the skillet, then layer half of the cheese, followed by the chicken mixture, and top with the remaining cheese. Cover with a second tortilla.
3. Cook: Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
4. Serve: Remove from the skillet and cut into wedges. Serve with diced avocado, tomatoes, and cilantro on top, along with extra salsa on the side.

Fish Tacos with Crunchy Slaw

If you’re looking for a fun and tasty meal that kids can easily assemble, these fish tacos with crunchy slaw are just the ticket. Juicy fish fillets are paired with a refreshing slaw, making every bite a delightful burst of flavor. Plus, they’re super simple to prepare, making them a perfect weeknight dinner option.

The combination of the seasoned fish and the crisp vegetables adds a nice crunch, while a squeeze of lime brings everything together. Kids will love building their own tacos, and you can customize the toppings to suit everyone’s taste!

Ingredients

• 1 pound white fish fillets (such as tilapia or cod)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 2 cups green cabbage, shredded
• 1 cup carrots, shredded
• 1/2 cup purple cabbage, shredded
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish: In a bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the fish fillets with the mixture.
2. Cook the Fish: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook the fish for about 3-4 minutes on each side until cooked through and flaky.
3. Make the Slaw: In a large bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, carrots, purple cabbage, and cilantro. Toss to mix well.
4. Warm the Tortillas: Lightly toast the corn tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side until warm.
5. Assemble the Tacos: Place the cooked fish in the center of each tortilla, top with crunchy slaw, and finish with a squeeze of lime. Let everyone build their tacos to their liking!

Veggie-Packed Taco Cups

Veggie-packed taco cups are a fun and tasty way for kids to enjoy their meals. These bite-sized delights are filled with fresh vegetables, making them not only colorful but also nutritious. The crispy taco shells add a satisfying crunch, while the shredded cheese and toppings bring a burst of flavor that kids will love.

Perfect for lunch or a light dinner, these taco cups are easy to assemble and allow kids to customize their own creations. Just set out a variety of fillings and let them build their own veggie-packed masterpieces!

Ingredients

• 12 small taco shells
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
• 1/2 cup corn (canned or frozen)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• 1/2 cup diced cucumbers
• 1/4 cup sliced olives
• 1/2 cup guacamole
• 1/4 cup salsa

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and arrange the taco shells on a baking sheet.
2. Lightly bake the taco shells in the oven for about 5 minutes to make them crisp.
3. Remove the shells and let them cool slightly. Once cool, fill each shell with shredded lettuce as the base.
4. Add diced tomatoes, bell peppers, corn, cucumbers, and olives into each taco shell.
5. Top with shredded cheese and a dollop of guacamole and salsa.
6. Serve immediately and let the kids enjoy their colorful, veggie-packed taco cups!

Breakfast Tacos with Scrambled Eggs

Breakfast tacos filled with scrambled eggs are a fun and tasty way to start the day. These handheld delights are easy to prepare and can be customized to suit any taste. With a soft tortilla hugging fluffy eggs and colorful toppings, they offer a burst of flavor in every bite.

Kids will love building their own tacos, choosing from a variety of toppings like cheese, salsa, and sour cream. It’s a simple recipe that encourages creativity and is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients

• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 4 small flour tortillas
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• 1/4 cup salsa
• Sour cream (optional)
• Chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Scramble the Eggs: In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Melt butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour in the egg mixture and gently stir until just set and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Warm the Tortillas: In another pan, heat the tortillas briefly until warm and pliable.
3. Assemble the Tacos: Lay the scrambled eggs on each tortilla and top with shredded cheese, salsa, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
4. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and serve immediately. Let everyone build their own breakfast taco just the way they like it!

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

Sweet potato and black bean tacos are a delightful option for kids who love to build their own meals. With a mix of sweet, savory, and a bit of spice, these tacos are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. The combination of creamy sweet potatoes and hearty black beans creates a satisfying dish that kids can enjoy putting together.

This recipe is simple to make and allows for a fun taco-building experience. The ingredients can be prepped in advance, making it easy for kids to customize their own tacos with various toppings like salsa, cheese, and fresh herbs.

Ingredients

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 corn or flour tortillas
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup corn
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender.
2. Prepare the Black Beans: While the sweet potatoes are roasting, heat the black beans in a small pot over medium heat until warm.
3. Warm the Tortillas: Lightly warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable.
4. Assemble the Tacos: On each tortilla, layer the roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, diced tomatoes, and corn. Add fresh cilantro on top for flavor.
5. Serve: Enjoy your customizable sweet potato and black bean tacos right away!

Mini Taco Shells for Creative Fillings

Mini taco shells are a fun and versatile base for an endless variety of fillings. They offer a delightful crunch and can easily be personalized with your kids’ favorite ingredients. Whether you go for a traditional meat filling or a mix of vibrant veggies, the flavor is always satisfying.

This recipe is simple enough for kids to help with, making it a great bonding activity. Let them unleash their creativity by choosing from assorted toppings, allowing each taco to reflect their unique taste!

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup warm water
• Cooking spray or additional oil for frying

Instructions

1. Make the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder. Then, mix in vegetable oil and warm water until a soft dough forms.
2. Shape the Shells: Divide the dough into small balls (about the size of a golf ball). Roll each ball out into thin circles, about 5 inches wide.
3. Cook the Shells: Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it. Cook each tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side until they’re golden and slightly crispy. Remove and let cool.
4. Assemble Tacos: Once the shells have cooled, let your kids fill them with their favorite ingredients, such as seasoned ground beef, beans, cheese, lettuce, and salsa.
5. Enjoy: Serve immediately and watch as everyone enjoys creating their own taco masterpiece!

Salsa Verde Chicken Tacos

Salsa Verde Chicken Tacos are a fun and flavorful meal that kids can easily build themselves. The tender chicken is cooked with zesty salsa verde, giving it a bright and tangy taste that pairs perfectly with soft tortillas. This recipe is simple to make, making it a great choice for a busy weeknight or a weekend family gathering.

These tacos allow kids to customize their meals, adding their favorite toppings like cheese, lettuce, or avocado. The crunchy fresh cilantro adds a nice touch, enhancing the vibrant flavors of the dish. Get ready for a delightful taco night!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1 cup salsa verde
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add Salsa Verde: Pour the salsa verde into the skillet, stirring to coat the chicken. Allow it to simmer for another 3-5 minutes until heated thoroughly.
3. Warm the Tortillas: In a separate pan, warm the corn tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side until soft and pliable.
4. Assemble the Tacos: Spoon the salsa verde chicken onto each tortilla. Top with fresh cilantro and any other desired toppings.
5. Serve: Enjoy with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor!