Ground beef baked tacos are a tasty twist on the classic dish! You get seasoned beef, melted cheese, and crunchy taco shells all baked together for a fun family meal.
What I love most is how easy they are to make. Just fill the shells, top with cheese, and let the oven do the work! Plus, they make great leftovers for lunch the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef to avoid excess grease. If you want a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken work just as well. For a vegetarian twist, consider using black beans or lentils instead.
Onion: A small onion adds great flavor. If you’re not a fan of onions or need a substitute, try shallots or even green onions for a milder taste.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and paprika warm up the flavors. If you don’t have chili powder, taco seasoning can be a quick alternative. Adjust spice levels according to your preference!
Tortillas: I love using corn tortillas for their authenticity, but flour tortillas are soft and delicious too. If gluten is a concern, look for gluten-free tortillas available at most stores.
Cheese: Cheddar is my go-to for that melty goodness. However, you can mix it up with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a kick!
How Do You Layer and Bake Tacos Perfectly?
Layering is key to getting every bite full of flavor. Start by spreading a base layer of the beef mixture in your baking dish. This helps prevent the tortillas from getting soggy.
- Assemble layers carefully: tortilla, beef mixture, cheese, and repeat until full.
- Cover with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in while baking initially. This helps melt the cheese perfectly.
- Uncover towards the end to allow the cheese to get bubbly and slightly golden for that delicious finish!
Let your baked tacos cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps everything set and makes for easier slicing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Ground Beef Baked Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Taco Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembling the Tacos:
- 10 taco-size flour or corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce (for garnish)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (for garnish)
- Salsa or sour cream (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty taco dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to bake. You’ll spend a little time cooking the beef and layering your tacos before sliding them into the oven for a bubbly finish. Perfect for a family dinner or a get-together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that it’s nice and hot when your tacos are ready to bake.
2. Cook the Beef Mixture:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring it in gently. Now, add the ground beef to the skillet and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, which should take roughly 6-8 minutes. Once it’s ready, stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let everything cook together for about 2 additional minutes to meld those delicious flavors.
3. Assemble the Tacos:
Take a large baking dish and spread a thin layer of the beef mixture across the bottom to prevent sticking. Now, take a tortilla and place it in the baking dish. Add a spoonful of the beef mixture on top, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat this layering process: tortilla, beef, cheese, until you are out of ingredients, making sure that cheese is the final layer on top.
4. Bake the Tacos:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and pop it into the oven. Bake for 20 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes. You want the cheese to be bubbly and slightly golden brown, which will give your tacos a delightful finish.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, let the dish cool for a few minutes. Then, garnish with shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes. If you like, serve with salsa or sour cream on the side. Get ready to enjoy your delicious baked tacos!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative that works well in this recipe. Just be mindful that it may require a little more seasoning, so taste as you go and adjust spices to your preference.
What If I Don’t Have Tortillas?
If you’re out of tortillas, you can use large lettuce leaves as a low-carb option for a taco salad. Alternatively, you can layer the beef mixture and cheese in a baking dish as a casserole without the tortillas – just bake a bit longer until all is heated through.
How to Store Leftover Baked Tacos?
After baking, let the tacos cool completely, then store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave them for a quick option.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Substitute the ground beef with black beans, lentils, or a meat alternative like Beyond Meat. Adjust the seasonings accordingly to enhance the flavor. Just remember to cook your chosen vegetarian protein as needed before assembling the tacos.
