Taco Night Gets a Spicy Upgrade: Old El Paso and Tabasco Join Forces for Limited-Edition Flavor Explosion

Just in time for the ultimate Taco Tuesday on Cinco de Mayo, two giants of the pantry are officially colliding. General Mills has announced a high-heat partnership between Old El Paso and the McIlhenny Company, creators of Tabasco, to launch a brand-new line of spicy taco shells.

The collaboration brings the signature tangy, peppery kick of Tabasco sauce directly into the crunch of Old El Paso’s famous shells, aiming to simplify spicy taco night for families across the country.

The ‘Tabasco Shell’ Experience

The new Old El Paso Tabasco Taco Shells are designed to provide a consistent, uniform heat that saves fans the step of dousing every individual taco with hot sauce. Infused with the classic red pepper flavor that has made Tabasco a household name since 1868, these limited-edition shells offer a “zing” that traditional corn shells lack.

“We take tacos very seriously,” said Meredith Nelson Uram, Business Unit Director for Old El Paso at General Mills. “This partnership is about bringing that signature pepper kick to our biggest fans just in time for the spring’s biggest taco occasions.”

The ‘Taco Totality’ Gear Box

To celebrate the launch, Old El Paso isn't just stocking shelves; they are leaning into “nerdy food” culture with the release of the Taco Totality Gear Box. This limited-edition kit is designed for the hardcore taco enthusiast who wants to turn a Tuesday dinner into a full-scale event.

Each box includes:

• The Tabasco Shells: A fresh pack of the limited-edition spicy shells.
• Taco Shield Glasses: Specialized eyewear designed to protect your eyes from “high-risk” toppings like jalapeños and onions during prep.
• The Totality Neck Pillow: Engineered for the “peak taco tilt,” allowing you to maintain the perfect angle for eating without losing your fillings to gravity.
• Taco Totality T-Shirt: A backup outfit for the inevitable saucy spills that come with a fiery taco feast.

Where to Buy

The Old El Paso Tabasco Taco Shells are rolling out to major retailers and online stores starting this week. Like many high-profile “flavor crossovers,” these are a limited-time offering.

Whether you’re planning a massive Cinco de Mayo fiesta or just looking to add some “nerdy” flair to your weekly meal rotation, these shells are a clear winner for those who like their dinner with a little extra bite. Look for the bright yellow box with the iconic red Tabasco logo in the Mexican food aisle—but move fast, as these are expected to vanish shortly after the May 5 festivities.