Description
Get ready for a game-changing taco night with these Crispy Baked Ground Beef Tacos! They’re packed with seasoned beef, melty cheese, and wrapped in golden, crunchy taco shells—all baked to perfection. Quick, easy, and way less messy than frying, this recipe is perfect for a fun family dinner or a casual get-together.
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Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef – The hearty base of your taco filling.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing.
- ½ small onion, diced – Adds a sweet, savory depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – For a garlicky kick.
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning – Store-bought or homemade.
- ½ teaspoon salt – To enhance flavors.
- ½ cup tomato sauce – Adds richness and moisture.
- ½ cup beef broth or water – Helps blend the flavors.
- 10–12 crunchy taco shells – Stand-and-fill shells work best.
- 1 ½ cups shredded Mexican cheese blend – For that melty, cheesy goodness.
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced jalapeños
- Sour cream
- Chopped cilantro
- Avocado or guacamole
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and cook until soft (2-3 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Cook until browned (5-7 minutes).
- Drain excess grease if needed.
- Stir in taco seasoning, salt, tomato sauce, and broth. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 2: Assemble the Tacos
- Arrange taco shells upright on a baking sheet. If they don’t stand on their own, use crumpled foil to keep them in place.
- Spoon the beef mixture evenly into each taco shell.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the beef.
Step 3: Bake the Tacos
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the shells are golden and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before adding toppings.
Step 4: Add Toppings & Serve
- Top with lettuce, tomatoes, jalapeños, sour cream, cilantro, or avocado.
- Serve immediately and enjoy every crunchy, cheesy bite!
Notes
- Use Stand-and-Stuff Taco Shells: They hold their shape better when baking.
- Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can make the tacos soggy.
- Make Them Spicier: Add a dash of cayenne or hot sauce for heat.
- Double the Batch: These reheat well for an easy next-day meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired