10 Best Taco Shell Makers for Perfect Crispy Tacos

Looking for the best taco shell makers to upgrade your kitchen game?
I’ve tested the top 10 tools that make crispy, golden shells with ease—and they’ve turned every taco night into a delicious win.

There’s nothing like the smell of a fresh, crispy taco shell coming out of your own kitchen. I still remember the first time I used a cast iron tortilla press—the shells came out perfect, and the crunch was unforgettable. It made taco night feel like a small culinary victory.

Over time, I’ve tested taco shell makers that fry, bake, and shape with ease. The right tool turns simple tortillas into golden, crunchy shells with almost no effort. That’s why finding the best one matters.

The right maker saves time. It makes shells perfect every time. It makes tacos taste even better.

List of Top 10 Taco Shell Makers

Image Title Best For Price
ARC Tortilla Press 10.4 ARC Tortilla Press 10.4″ Include 100 Pcs Parchment Paper, Cast Iron Tortilla Maker, Black Gray

Perfect for home cooks and food lovers who want fresh, perfectly pressed flatbreads with ease. Great for anyone who values quality, strength, and a tool that lasts for years.

ARC Tortilla Press 8 inch, Cast Iron Tortilla Maker Include 100 Pcs Parchment Paper, Heavy Duty Tortillera Pataconera, Flour Tortilla Press, Roti Maker, Taco Maker, Taco Press, Black Gray ARC Tortilla Press 8 inch, Cast Iron Tortilla Maker Include 100 Pcs Parchment Paper, Heavy Duty Tortillera Pataconera, Flour Tortilla Press, Roti Maker, Taco Maker, Taco Press, Black Gray

Perfect for home cooks, food lovers, and anyone who wants fresh, perfectly pressed flatbreads in minutes. Great for making tortillas, rotis, tacos, and more with ease and consistency.

ARC Gordita Press 5 inch, Gordita Maker, Heavy Duty Tortillera, Cast Iron Tortilla Maker, Pataconera, Flour Tortilla Press, Chapati Maker, Taco Maker, Taco Press, Puri Press ARC Gordita Press 5 inch, Gordita Maker, Heavy Duty Tortillera, Cast Iron Tortilla Maker, Pataconera, Flour Tortilla Press, Chapati Maker, Taco Maker, Taco Press, Puri Press

Perfect for home cooks and food lovers who want to make fresh, perfectly pressed tortillas with ease. Ideal for anyone who enjoys authentic flavors and a simple, quick cooking process.

HIC Kitchen Taco Shell Tong, Steel, For Making Homemade Taco Shells HIC Kitchen Taco Shell Tong, Steel, For Making Homemade Taco Shells

This tool is perfect for anyone who loves tacos and wants to make them fresh and crispy at home. It’s great for people who enjoy easy cooking without the mess.

Nostalgia Taco Tuesday Tortilla Bowl Maker For Baked Taco Bowls, Tostadas, Salads, Dips, Appetizers, and Desserts, 8 to 10 Inch Tortillas, Red Nostalgia Taco Tuesday Tortilla Bowl Maker For Baked Taco Bowls, Tostadas, Salads, Dips, Appetizers, and Desserts, 8 to 10 Inch Tortillas, Red

Perfect for taco lovers and creative cooks who want fast, fun, and crispy bowls every time. Great for anyone who loves easy meals and delicious desserts with less mess.

ARTTHOME. Taco Holders 4 Packs - Stainless Steel Taco Stand Rack Tray Style, Oven Safe for Baking, Dishwasher and Grill Safe ARTTHOME. Taco Holders 4 Packs – Stainless Steel Taco Stand Rack Tray Style, Oven Safe for Baking, Dishwasher and Grill Safe

Perfect for taco lovers who want their shells to stay upright, neat, and ready to fill. Great for families, foodies, or anyone who enjoys a quick, clean, and tasty taco night.

Chef Tacos 2-Pack Taco Shell Molder & Maker, Stainless Steel Tool for Oven, Air Fryer, Stove Top, Toaster & Frying; Dishwasher Safe, Reusable, Salad Shell Mold & Tortilla Warmer, 6-8 Inch Chef Tacos 2-Pack Taco Shell Molder & Maker, Stainless Steel Tool for Oven, Air Fryer, Stove Top, Toaster & Frying; Dishwasher Safe, Reusable, Salad Shell Mold & Tortilla Warmer, 6-8 Inch

Perfect for anyone who loves crispy tacos and wants an easy way to make them at home. Great for families, food lovers, and taco fans who enjoy fresh, homemade shells anytime.

Winco Taco Basket, Holds 8 Shells Winco Taco Basket, Holds 8 Shells

Perfect for home cooks and small restaurants who want crispy taco shells fast. Great for anyone who loves making tacos the easy way.

THE ORIGINAL MI TACO STAND- Gives more THE ORIGINAL MI TACO STAND- Gives more “crispy” to the taco INSIDE & OUTSIDE while frying. AIR frying; or baking. Patented design makes it easier to fill too.

Perfect for taco lovers who want extra crunch and an easy way to cook at home. Great for anyone who enjoys crispy shells without the mess.

Cielasis 2 Pack 8.5 Cielasis 2 Pack 8.5″ Nonstick Large Taco Shell Bowl – Carbon Steel Tortilla Maker Shell Pans Baking Molds Tostada for Frying Salad Bowls

Perfect for home cooks, food lovers, and anyone who enjoys making meals look and taste amazing. Ideal for those who want fun, easy, and creative ways to serve tacos, salads, and more.

Detailed Reviews

Discover the Best Taco Shell Makers trusted by both experts and happy customers. We review each one for quality, ease of use, and value. Our guide is simple, clear, and full of useful tips. Read on to find the tool that will make your tacos truly perfect.

1. ARC Tortilla Press 10.4″ Include 100 Pcs Parchment Paper, Cast Iron Tortilla Maker, Black Gray

ARC Tortilla Press 10.4

Make perfect tortillas with the ARC Tortilla Press 10.4″. It’s made of strong cast iron and looks like natural stone.

The handle is thick and won’t break. The feet don’t slip or scratch your table. It comes in four sizes for different types of dough.

You get 100 parchment papers to keep things clean. It’s pre-seasoned and easy to wash. Just dry it well before storing.

Pros Cons
  • Strong cast iron makes pressing easy and smooth
  • Thick handle won’t bend or break under pressure
  • Non-slip base keeps it steady while you press
  • Comes with parchment for quick, clean release
  • Ready to use with no extra prep needed
  • Heavy weight may be hard to move or store
  • Needs hand washing for proper care

Perfect For:

Perfect for home cooks and food lovers who want fresh, perfectly pressed flatbreads with ease. Great for anyone who values quality, strength, and a tool that lasts for years.

Ready to Purchase?

2. ARC Tortilla Press 8 inch, Cast Iron Tortilla Maker Include 100 Pcs Parchment Paper, Heavy Duty Tortillera Pataconera, Flour Tortilla Press, Roti Maker, Taco Maker, Taco Press, Black Gray

ARC Tortilla Press 8 inch, Cast Iron Tortilla Maker Include 100 Pcs Parchment Paper, Heavy Duty Tortillera Pataconera, Flour Tortilla Press, Roti Maker, Taco Maker, Taco Press, Black Gray

The ARC Tortilla Press is built from heavy-duty cast iron for strength that lasts. Its stone-look finish makes it as stylish as it is tough.

The reinforced handle gives you extra power. 100 parchment sheets make pressing clean and easy. Perfect for tortillas, tacos, roti, and more.

Pros Cons
  • Strong cast iron for long-lasting use
  • Wider handle gives extra pressing power
  • Comes with 100 parchment papers for easy cooking
  • Multiple sizes to suit different tortilla types
  • Pre-seasoned and ready to use instantly
  • Heavy weight makes it hard to move or store
  • Hand wash only—no dishwasher use allowed
  • Needs parchment paper every time to avoid sticking

Perfect For:

Perfect for home cooks, food lovers, and anyone who wants fresh, perfectly pressed flatbreads in minutes. Great for making tortillas, rotis, tacos, and more with ease and consistency.

Ready to Purchase?

3. ARC Gordita Press 5 inch, Gordita Maker, Heavy Duty Tortillera, Cast Iron Tortilla Maker, Pataconera, Flour Tortilla Press, Chapati Maker, Taco Maker, Taco Press, Puri Press

ARC Gordita Press 5 inch, Gordita Maker, Heavy Duty Tortillera, Cast Iron Tortilla Maker, Pataconera, Flour Tortilla Press, Chapati Maker, Taco Maker, Taco Press, Puri Press

The ARC Gordita Press 5 inch is built from heavy-duty cast iron for strength you can trust. Its smart design delivers an even, perfect press every time.

Make tortillas, gorditas, and more with ease. Just place the dough, press, and enjoy. Clean-up is simple.

Pros Cons
  • Strong cast iron build for long-lasting use
  • Even press for smooth, round tortillas every time
  • Multi-purpose tool for tacos, sopes, and more
  • Easy to use with simple press-and-go action
  • Low upkeep with quick clean and oil rub care
  • Hand wash only, not safe for dishwasher
  • Needs oil coating after each use to prevent rust
  • Small size limits tortilla diameter to 5 inches

Perfect For:

Perfect for home cooks and food lovers who want to make fresh, perfectly pressed tortillas with ease. Ideal for anyone who enjoys authentic flavors and a simple, quick cooking process.

Ready to Purchase?

4. HIC Kitchen Taco Shell Tong, Steel, For Making Homemade Taco Shells

HIC Kitchen Taco Shell Tong, Steel, For Making Homemade Taco Shells

Make perfect taco shells at home with ease. This steel taco tong shapes and fries tortillas into crispy delights. No more greasy mess in your kitchen.

The stay-cool handle keeps your hands safe. The open-wire design drains oil for a light, crunchy bite.

Works with flour, corn, or gluten-free tortillas. Shape them in advance and reheat anytime. Enjoy fresh, golden taco shells every time.

Pros Cons
  • Safely makes perfect crispy taco shells every time
  • Stay-cool handle keeps hands comfortable while cooking
  • Drains oil for a lighter, crunchier bite
  • Works with any tortilla type you love
  • Sturdy steel build for long-lasting use
  • Hand wash only, not safe for dishwasher use
  • Works best with small tortillas (up to 6 inches)
  • One shell at a time, not for big batches

Perfect For:

This tool is perfect for anyone who loves tacos and wants to make them fresh and crispy at home. It’s great for people who enjoy easy cooking without the mess.

Ready to Purchase?

5. Nostalgia Taco Tuesday Tortilla Bowl Maker For Baked Taco Bowls, Tostadas, Salads, Dips, Appetizers, and Desserts, 8 to 10 Inch Tortillas, Red

Nostalgia Taco Tuesday Tortilla Bowl Maker For Baked Taco Bowls, Tostadas, Salads, Dips, Appetizers, and Desserts, 8 to 10 Inch Tortillas, Red

Turn every meal into a fun event with the Nostalgia Taco Tuesday Tortilla Bowl Maker. It shapes tortillas into crispy bowls in minutes.

Just place a tortilla inside. Wait 1–3 minutes. Enjoy a perfectly shaped shell every time.

Make taco salads, fill with desserts, or serve tasty dips in style. It’s easy to clean and built to last.

Pros Cons
  • Perfect bowls in just minutes, crisp and tasty.
  • Easy to use with clear ready lights.
  • Nonstick surface makes cleanup quick and simple.
  • Versatile design for tacos, salads, and desserts.
  • Compact size saves space and looks great on counters.
  • Only fits 8–10 inch tortillas
  • Needs preheating before every use
  • Plastic body may scratch if not handled carefully

Perfect For:

Perfect for taco lovers and creative cooks who want fast, fun, and crispy bowls every time. Great for anyone who loves easy meals and delicious desserts with less mess.

Ready to Purchase?

6. ARTTHOME. Taco Holders 4 Packs – Stainless Steel Taco Stand Rack Tray Style, Oven Safe for Baking, Dishwasher and Grill Safe

ARTTHOME. Taco Holders 4 Packs - Stainless Steel Taco Stand Rack Tray Style, Oven Safe for Baking, Dishwasher and Grill Safe

Make taco night easier with the ARTTHOME Taco Holders. They fit both street tacos and large tortillas. No taco gets left behind.

The smart design keeps tacos upright and neat. Fill them fast without any mess.

Made from premium stainless steel, they are oven safe and dishwasher safe. Strong, rust-free, and built to last.

Pros Cons
  • Holds tacos upright for easy filling and eating
  • Fits small street tacos and large burritos alike
  • Oven and grill safe for hot, fresh tacos
  • Dishwasher safe for quick, no-hassle cleanup
  • Durable stainless steel lasts for years without rust
  • Not stackable, takes up more space in the kitchen
  • No lid, so tacos can dry out if left
  • Sharp edges may need careful handling during wash

Perfect For:

Perfect for taco lovers who want their shells to stay upright, neat, and ready to fill. Great for families, foodies, or anyone who enjoys a quick, clean, and tasty taco night.

Ready to Purchase?

7. Chef Tacos 2-Pack Taco Shell Molder & Maker, Stainless Steel Tool for Oven, Air Fryer, Stove Top, Toaster & Frying; Dishwasher Safe, Reusable, Salad Shell Mold & Tortilla Warmer, 6-8 Inch

Chef Tacos 2-Pack Taco Shell Molder & Maker, Stainless Steel Tool for Oven, Air Fryer, Stove Top, Toaster & Frying; Dishwasher Safe, Reusable, Salad Shell Mold & Tortilla Warmer, 6-8 Inch

Make perfect taco shells right at home. Works in your oven, air fryer, or on the stove. Strong stainless steel makes it last.

Fits 6–8 inch tortillas with ease. Holds small or big tacos steady.

Non-stick surface makes cleanup fast. Use again and again for fresh, crispy shells.

Pros Cons
  • Make perfect tacos in oven, air fryer, or stove.
  • Fits 6–8 inch tortillas for big, tasty shells.
  • Strong stainless steel design lasts for years.
  • Non-stick surface makes cleanup quick and easy.
  • Reusable for endless taco nights without waste.
  • Takes up space in small kitchen drawers.
  • Not ideal for very small tortillas.
  • Requires care to avoid scratches on stainless steel.

Perfect For:

Perfect for anyone who loves crispy tacos and wants an easy way to make them at home. Great for families, food lovers, and taco fans who enjoy fresh, homemade shells anytime.

Ready to Purchase?

8. Winco Taco Basket, Holds 8 Shells

Winco Taco Basket, Holds 8 Shells

Make perfect tacos every time with the Winco Taco Basket. It holds 8 tortillas in separate sections so they never stick.

The chrome-plated steel frame is strong. It’s dishwasher-safe. It’s built to last.

Pros Cons
  • Fry up to 8 taco shells at once
  • Keeps shells from sticking together
  • Built with strong chrome-plated steel
  • Easy to clean in the dishwasher
  • Only makes taco shells, not for other foods
  • Takes space in storage when not in use
  • Not ideal for very small or large tortillas

Perfect For:

Perfect for home cooks and small restaurants who want crispy taco shells fast. Great for anyone who loves making tacos the easy way.

Ready to Purchase?

9. THE ORIGINAL MI TACO STAND- Gives more “crispy” to the taco INSIDE & OUTSIDE while frying. AIR frying; or baking. Patented design makes it easier to fill too.

THE ORIGINAL MI TACO STAND- Gives more

Make perfect tacos every time with THE ORIGINAL MI TACO STAND. Get more crispy inside and out, while making filling super easy.

It works for frying, air frying, or baking. Built from 100% stainless steel. Cleans fast in the dishwasher.

Use with flour tortillas, corn tortillas, or even eggroll wrappers. The flatbottom keeps tacos steady. Your tacos stay tasty from kitchen to table.

Pros Cons
  • Extra crispy tacos inside and out every time
  • Fits flour, corn, or even eggroll wrappers
  • Easy fill design saves time and mess
  • Durable stainless steel built to last
  • Dishwasher safe for quick, simple cleanup
  • Frames may be too small for larger tortillas.
  • Can be hard to clean if not dried properly.

Perfect For:

Perfect for taco lovers who want extra crunch and an easy way to cook at home. Great for anyone who enjoys crispy shells without the mess.

Ready to Purchase?

10. Cielasis 2 Pack 8.5″ Nonstick Large Taco Shell Bowl – Carbon Steel Tortilla Maker Shell Pans Baking Molds Tostada for Frying Salad Bowls

Cielasis 2 Pack 8.5

Make perfect taco shell bowls in minutes. This Cielasis 2-pack gives you big 8.5″ molds for more delicious fillings. Turn simple tortillas into crispy, golden bowls.

Built from strong carbon steel, they stay in shape for years. The smooth nonstick coating makes food release easy and cleanup fast.

Use them for tacos, salads, or fun snacks. Just press, bake, and fill. Enjoy fresh, crunchy bowls anytime.

Pros Cons
  • Durable carbon steel for long-lasting use
  • Nonstick surface makes cleaning quick and easy
  • Versatile design for frying or baking tortilla bowls
  • Simple to use with fast cooking time
  • Creative way to make fun, tasty dishes
  • Requires large tortillas to fit the 8.5″ size
  • Not safe for dishwasher, needs hand washing
  • Can take up storage space in small kitchens

Perfect For:

Perfect for home cooks, food lovers, and anyone who enjoys making meals look and taste amazing. Ideal for those who want fun, easy, and creative ways to serve tacos, salads, and more.

Ready to Purchase?

Buying Guide

There’s a special joy in hearing the crisp snap of a taco shell you made yourself. The first time I shaped one with a simple press, it felt like a tiny kitchen victory. Every bite made me want to do it all over again.

  • Material: Choose a maker built from strong cast iron or stainless steel for lasting strength. These hold up to heat and pressure without bending. Lighter materials may not give the same even results.

  • Type of Cooking: Some makers are for frying, some for baking, and others for pressing raw dough. Think about whether you like a lighter baked shell or a richer fried one. Pick the style that matches your cooking habits.

  • Size Options: Makers come in different diameters to fit tortillas from small street tacos to large wraps. A good fit means less waste and a better shape. Bigger isn’t always better—match size to your usual tortilla.

  • Ease of Cleaning: Nonstick surfaces and smooth edges make cleaning fast. Dishwasher-safe parts save time. If you choose cast iron, dry it well to prevent rust.

  • Safety Features: Look for a stay-cool handle or a stable non-slip base. These prevent burns and accidents during hot cooking. Safety should always come first.

  • Versatility: Some tools can shape shells, bowls, and even other flatbreads. Versatile gear means more recipes from one tool. It’s a smart way to save space in your kitchen.

  • Accessories Included: Extra items like parchment paper sheets, stands, or taco holders can make prep and serving easier. These small extras often add big convenience.

  • Durability: A maker that feels solid in your hands will likely last for years. Check for reinforced handles and tight joints. Cheap builds may crack or warp over time.