Description
Mexican-inspired “cheesy beef baked tacos” deliver a flavor explosion of seasoned ground beef and melted cheese nestled in crispy tortilla shells. Crisp edges and gooey center make this simple dinner a crowd-pleasing meal you can whip up in minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
Aromatics and Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1/4 cup water
Cheese and Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 12 taco shells
- 1/2 cup salsa (optional)
- Sour cream (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Warm the oven to a moderate temperature of 375°F, preparing a baking environment for the tacos.
- Select a spacious skillet and warm olive oil over medium heat, introducing finely chopped onions and minced garlic to create an aromatic base.
- Introduce ground beef into the skillet, carefully fragmenting the meat with a utensil while ensuring complete and even browning throughout the cooking process.
- Eliminate excess fat from the cooked beef, then incorporate taco seasoning and liquid, allowing the mixture to simmer and absorb flavors thoroughly.
- Strategically position taco shells upright within a baking vessel, creating a stable foundation for the upcoming layers.
- Meticulously distribute the seasoned beef mixture into each taco shell, ensuring an even and generous filling.
- Lavishly crown each taco with a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, creating a rich and melty topping.
- Transfer the prepared dish into the preheated oven, allowing the tacos to transform for 10-12 minutes until the cheese becomes perfectly melted and the shells acquire a crisp texture.
- After baking, extract the tacos from the oven and embellish with optional garnishes like fresh salsa, creamy sour cream, and vibrant cilantro.
- Present the tacos immediately, inviting everyone to savor the delicious combination of flavors and textures.
Notes
- Select lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and create a healthier version of the dish.
- Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of taco seasoning or making your own homemade blend for more control.
- Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option, or try lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative that still delivers maximum flavor.
- Consider preparing the beef mixture ahead of time and storing it in the refrigerator to streamline meal preparation and save time on busy nights.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 473
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 29 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg