Ground beef baked tacos are a fun and easy twist on a classic meal! Picture crispy taco shells filled with flavorful beef, cheese, and your favorite toppings, all baked until bubbly.
These tacos make me feel like a kitchen superstar—who doesn’t love a good cheesy taco? I pile on the salsa and guacamole for extra yum! 🌮🎉
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using lean ground beef (85/15) to avoid too much grease. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works well too. Plant-based ground meat is another great substitute for a meatless option.
Onion: A medium onion enhances the flavor of the beef. If you’re not a fan, try using shallots or even green onions for a milder taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a lovely aroma, but garlic powder can substitute in a pinch. Use about 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove.
Taco Seasoning: While store-bought is convenient, making your own is easy! Combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano. If you prefer low-sodium options, consider making your blend to control the salt.
Tortillas: Corn tortillas offer a classic taco experience, while flour tortillas are softer. You could also use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier twist.
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic, but Mexican blend cheese gives an extra flavor kick. You can substitute with Monterey Jack or even vegan cheese for non-dairy options.
Refried Beans: These are optional but add creaminess. For a lighter option, you can use black beans or pinto beans instead.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor While Cooking Ground Beef?
Cooking ground beef properly is key to good flavor. Start by browning it well; this caramelization adds depth. Make sure to:
- Use medium heat to allow the beef to brown without burning.
- Drain excess fat after browning for a less greasy final dish.
- Don’t rush! Take your time cooking the onions and garlic together with the beef for layered flavors.
Getting this step right will set a delicious base for your baked tacos!
How to Make Ground Beef Baked Tacos?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 cup water
For Assembling the Tacos:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 cup refried beans (optional)
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for serving, optional)
- Jalapeños, sliced (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious taco recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to bake, totaling around 35 minutes from start to finish. You’ll have a hearty meal ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Beef:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when your tacos are ready to bake. Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s browned, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, carefully drain it away.
2. Add Onions and Garlic:
Once the beef is cooked, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook everything together until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. The delicious smell will fill your kitchen!
3. Season the Beef:
Next, stir in the taco seasoning along with the water. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens up a bit. Once it’s ready, remove the skillet from the heat.
4. Assemble the Tacos:
If you’re using refried beans, take a tortilla and spread a layer of beans on one side. Then, place about 2-3 tablespoons of the beef mixture on the other side of the tortilla and sprinkle a handful of shredded cheese on top.
5. Bake the Tacos:
Fold the tortillas in half and arrange them in a baking dish. You can pack them a bit close together if you’d like. If you have any leftover cheese, sprinkle it on top of the tacos. Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the tortillas are slightly crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When the tacos are finished baking, take them out and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish them with fresh cilantro and serve warm with salsa, sour cream, and sliced jalapeños on the side. Enjoy your tasty ground beef baked tacos!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef in this recipe. Just keep in mind that turkey tends to be a bit drier, so you may want to add a splash more water when simmering to keep the filling moist.
What Tortilla Type is Best for Baked Tacos?
You can use either corn or flour tortillas based on your preference! Corn tortillas are more traditional and hold up well when baked, while flour tortillas offer a softer texture. If you’re using corn tortillas, consider warming them slightly in the microwave before filling to make them more pliable.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Definitely! You can replace the ground beef with a mix of black beans, lentils, or even textured vegetable protein (TVP) for a hearty vegetarian option. Just sauté the onion and garlic as usual, then mix in your desired plant-based protein along with the taco seasoning!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, and if the tacos seem dry, add a little extra salsa or a sprinkle of cheese on top before warming.
