Description
Crunchy Baked Beef Tacos are a quick and easy way to enjoy crispy, cheesy tacos without frying. Filled with seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and baked to perfection, these tacos are a delicious and mess-free meal. Perfect for family dinners, game nights, or entertaining a crowd, these tacos can be customized with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and sour cream.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade)
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
- 12 hard taco shells
- Olive oil or cooking spray
- Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, avocado, cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add Seasoning: Stir in the diced onion, garlic, taco seasoning, and tomato sauce. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Assemble the Tacos: Arrange the taco shells in a baking dish, standing upright. Fill each shell with a spoonful of the beef mixture and top with shredded cheese.
- Bake: Lightly spray the tops of the tacos with olive oil or cooking spray. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the shells are crispy.
- Add Toppings & Serve: Remove from the oven and top with lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, and any other desired toppings. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- Chicken Tacos: Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of beef.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with black beans, refried beans, or a plant-based alternative.
- Extra Crispy: Lightly brush taco shells with oil before baking.
- Low-Carb: Use cheese taco shells or lettuce wraps.
