Ground Beef Baked Tacos are a fun twist on traditional tacos! You get seasoned beef baked in a crispy shell, filled with cheese and all your favorite toppings. Yum!
I love making these for family dinners because they’re easy and super tasty. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a crunchy taco? Just throw them in the oven and let the magic happen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef to keep it flavorful without too much grease. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try ground turkey or even plant-based alternatives like lentils or jackfruit, which can also soak up the taco seasoning nicely.
Onion: A small onion is perfect, but if you don’t have it, shallots or green onions can work too. They provide a milder flavor that’s still great in tacos.
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought taco seasoning is handy, but mixing your own with chili powder, cumin, and paprika is even better for custom flavor. Spicy or mild versions can be adjusted based on your taste.
Corn Tortillas: Corn tortillas give a lovely authentic flavor. If you can’t find them, flour tortillas are a suitable substitute, though they will change the texture slightly. For gluten-free options, try corn or rice tortillas.
Cheddar Cheese: While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack or pepper jack adds a nice kick. A blend of different cheeses adds depth, so feel free to experiment!
How Do I Ensure My Tacos Hold Their Shape?
Layering is key to keeping your baked tacos sturdy. Start by placing a tortilla on the baking sheet, then sprinkle a good amount of cheese to help seal the beef in. Using two tortillas per layer also adds stability. Press down lightly when layering to help them stay together.
- Make sure your skillet isn’t overcrowded when browning the beef; this helps it cook evenly.
- Let the assembled tacos rest for a minute after baking. This allows everything to set, making them easier to slice.
How to Make Ground Beef Baked Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Taco Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade)
- 1/2 cup water
For Assembling:
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for serving)
- Optional: sliced jalapeños, salsa, or guacamole for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep the ingredients and another 25 minutes for cooking and baking. So, in total, you’re looking at around 35 minutes to enjoy your delicious baked tacos!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your tacos bake perfectly and get nice and crispy!
2. Cook the Onion and Garlic:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook them together for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. This adds a wonderful flavor to your beef mixture!
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet, using a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Cook until the beef is browned, which will take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir it occasionally so it cooks evenly.
4. Add Seasoning and Water:
Once the beef is browned, stir in the taco seasoning and water. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then turn down the heat a bit and let it cook for another 5 minutes. This will allow the flavors to blend and the mixture to thicken slightly.
5. Prepare the Tortillas:
On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, lay out 4 of the corn tortillas. This is where we’ll start building our delicious layers!
6. Layer the Filling:
Sprinkle a layer of cheddar cheese over each tortilla. Next, add a generous amount of the beef mixture on top of the cheese. Finish off with another layer of cheese to make everything nice and gooey.
7. Stack the Tacos:
Take another tortilla and place it on top of the loaded mixture. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas to create a second layer of tacos. You’ll have two stacked layers of cheesy, beefy goodness!
8. Bake:
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the tortillas turn golden and the cheese is bubbling. It’s going to smell amazing!
9. Slice and Cool:
Once they’re done, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, slice each taco into wedges for easy serving.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm, delicious tacos topped with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream. If you like, add some sliced jalapeños, salsa, or guacamole for an extra kick. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great alternative for a leaner option. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly until it’s no longer pink, which might take a few extra minutes compared to ground beef. The seasoning will add plenty of flavor, so you won’t miss the beef!
What Can I Substitute for Corn Tortillas?
If you prefer, you can use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas. They can be a bit softer and are easier to work with when layering. Just keep in mind they may need an extra minute in the oven to get crispy. You can also use gluten-free tortillas if you’re following a gluten-free diet!
How to Store Leftover Baked Tacos?
Store leftover baked tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through, which helps maintain their crunchiness.
Can I Prepare the Beef Mixture in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the beef mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to make the tacos, reheat the mixture in a skillet over medium heat and assemble your tacos as instructed!
