These Ground Beef Baked Tacos are fun and tasty! They come loaded with seasoned beef, melted cheese, and your favorite toppings all inside crunchy taco shells.
Making these is a breeze! I love how they bake to perfection, and they always get gobbled up at my dinner table. Just add salsa and dig in—yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using lean ground beef for a healthier option. You can also use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer. For a vegetarian twist, substitute with lentils or a meat alternative like crumbled tofu or tempeh.
Onion: A small onion adds great flavor. Yellow onions work well, but white or red onions can also be used. If onions aren’t your thing, you could try using shallots for a milder taste.
Taco Seasoning: Ready-made taco seasoning is convenient. But, if you want more control over spices, I suggest making your own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano. It’s simple and you can adjust the heat level!
Cheese: Cheddar or a Mexican blend is popular in this recipe. If you’re looking for lighter cheese options, consider using part-skim mozzarella or a dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
Tortillas: I used corn tortillas, but flour tortillas are just as tasty. If you’re avoiding gluten, check for corn tortillas labeled gluten-free, or try lettuce wraps for a fresh alternative.
How Do I Properly Brown Ground Beef?
Browning ground beef is essential for flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet on medium heat before adding the beef. This helps it cook evenly.
- Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat right when you add it to the pan. Stir frequently, making sure it browns evenly.
- Cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t rush; letting it brown adds depth to the flavor!
- For a bit of extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt while cooking.
How to Make Ground Beef Baked Tacos?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade)
- 1/2 cup water
For Assembling:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- 1 cup salsa (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish should take about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for your baked tacos.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break it up into smaller pieces. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and smells sweet.
4. Season and Simmer:
Stir in the taco seasoning and water, turning the heat down to low. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally, and you’ll see it thicken up a bit.
5. Layering the Tacos:
Grab a baking dish and spread a thin layer of the beef mixture at the bottom. Next, place four tortillas over the top, slightly overlapping them. Pour half of the remaining beef mixture over the tortillas and sprinkle with 1 cup of cheese. Position the last four tortillas on top.
6. Finish Layering:
Spread the remaining beef mixture over the tortillas. Top everything with the rest of the cheese. If you like, you can also sprinkle black beans and drizzle salsa on top.
7. Bake the Tacos:
Put the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Let It Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro. Cut into squares, serve warm, and don’t forget the sour cream on the side!
Enjoy your delicious ground beef baked tacos!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. Simply follow the same cooking instructions. Just ensure that the meat is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Substitute for Taco Seasoning?
If you don’t have taco seasoning on hand, you can make your own using a mix of spices like cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Use about 2 tablespoons of the mix for this recipe. Adjust the spices to your taste!
How Do I Store Leftover Baked Tacos?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or use the microwave for a quicker option—just be careful not to overcook the cheese.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the beef mixture and layer the tacos in the baking dish a day ahead. Just cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and pop it in the oven as directed, possibly adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
