Your Guide to Old El Paso Tacos: Top Recommendations

By Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer

Planning a weeknight dinner that everyone in the family will enjoy can be a challenge. A taco night often comes to the rescue, offering a fun, interactive meal that can be customised to suit different tastes. When you reach the supermarket aisle, the variety of Old El Paso taco kits, shells and wraps can be extensive. Deciding between soft or crunchy, standard or gluten-free, can leave you wondering which is the right choice for your meal.

This guide is designed to help you navigate the options. We will look at the key differences between the most popular Old El Paso products, helping you select the ideal base for your next Mexican-inspired feast, whether it's for a quick family dinner or a weekend gathering with friends.

Choosing Your Perfect Base: A Quick Guide

Before you fill your basket, considering a few key points can ensure your taco night is a success.

Soft vs. Crunchy: The Textural Choice

The first decision often comes down to texture. Do you prefer a soft, pliable wrap or a firm, crunchy shell?

• Soft Flour Tortillas: These are incredibly versatile. Their soft, pillowy texture makes them ideal for rolling and folding without breaking. This makes them the go-to choice not just for soft tacos, but also for creating satisfying fajita wraps and burrito wraps. They hold generous fillings well and are easy for younger children to handle.
• Crunchy Taco Shells: For many, the classic sound and texture of a crunchy taco shell is non-negotiable. Made from corn and typically fried or baked to a crisp, these U-shaped shells provide a satisfying contrast to soft fillings like seasoned mince, beans and salsa. They are perfect for a traditional "build-your-own" taco bar.

Catering to Dietary Requirements

Accommodating different dietary needs is simpler than ever. If you or a family member avoids gluten, it’s important to check the ingredients list. Old El Paso offers specific gluten free tortilla wraps, often made from alternative flours like tapioca, corn and quinoa. This ensures everyone can join in the fun without worry. Always double-check the packaging, as standard soft flour tortillas are wheat-based.

Planning Your Meal: Tacos, Fajitas, or Burritos?

While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, the type of wrap or shell you choose can be influenced by the meal you're planning.

• Tacos: Can be made with either soft tortillas or crunchy shells. They are typically folded and filled.
• Fajitas: Almost always served with warm, soft flour tortillas to wrap around sizzling strips of meat and vegetables.
• Burritos: Require large, soft tortillas that can be tightly rolled around a hearty combination of rice, beans, meat and other fillings.

Thinking about your final dish will help you select the right Mexican food ingredients from the start.

Our Top Recommendations for Your Next Taco Night

Here are our recommendations from the Old El Paso UK range, selected to cover the most common needs for a home-cooked Mexican-style meal.

OLD EL PASO Flour Tortillas 326g

Why It Stands Out: These are the quintessential soft wraps, known for their light and pliable texture. Pressed from fresh dough and oven-baked, they provide a reliable and versatile base for a wide range of dishes beyond just tacos.

Pros:

• Very soft and flexible, reducing the chance of tearing when filled.
• Highly versatile for making soft tacos, fajitas and burritos.
• Suitable for home freezing, allowing you to stock up.

Who is it for? Families and home cooks who value versatility and plan to make a variety of Mexican-inspired meals, including fajitas and burritos. They are also a great choice for those who simply prefer a soft taco.

OLD EL PASO Gluten Free Tortilla Wraps 216g

Why It Stands Out: This product makes taco night accessible to everyone, regardless of gluten sensitivity. Made with a blend of tapioca starch, white corn flour, quinoa flour and amaranth flour, these wraps offer a delicious alternative without wheat.

Pros:

• Certified gluten-free, making them suitable for individuals with coeliac disease or gluten intolerance.
• The blend of flours provides a pleasant taste and texture.
• Remains soft and easy to handle when warmed.

Who is it for? Households where one or more members follow a gluten-free diet. They are an excellent pantry staple for ensuring all your guests can enjoy the meal.

OLD EL PASO Taco Shells 156g

Why It Stands Out: These corn taco shells deliver the classic, unmistakable crunch that defines a traditional taco experience. They are twice-cooked to ensure maximum crispiness and are shaped to be filled easily with your favourite ingredients.

Pros:

• Made from corn flour, they are naturally gluten-free (though it's wise to check the packaging for any "may contain" advisories).
• Provides a satisfyingly crunchy texture.
• Preservative-free and suitable for vegetarians.

Who is it for? Anyone looking to recreate the classic crunchy taco experience at home. They are perfect for interactive, build-your-own taco night ideas where texture is a key part of the fun.

Looking for More Mexican Food Ingredients?

If you're planning a full feast, you might need more than just the shells. From spice mixes and salsas to refried beans and complete meal kits, there's a whole world of flavours to discover.

Explore our full selection of Mexican food products to complete your meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you warm Old El Paso tortillas and taco shells?

For soft flour tortillas, you can warm them in a microwave for 30-45 seconds for the whole pack, or pan-heat them for a few seconds on each side. For crunchy taco shells, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 180°C (160°C fan) for 2-3 minutes to restore their crispness.

Are all Old El Paso products gluten-free?

No, not all products are gluten-free. The standard soft flour tortillas contain wheat. However, Old El Paso offers clearly labelled gluten free tortilla wraps and the crunchy taco shells are made from corn flour. Always check the allergen information on the packaging to be certain.

What are some classic taco night ideas for fillings?

The beauty of tacos is their versatility. Popular fillings include seasoned beef mince, shredded chicken, or pulled pork. For vegetarian options, try black beans with corn and peppers, spicy lentils, or roasted sweet potatoes. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, grated cheese, salsa, guacamole and a dollop of sour cream.