Get ready for a delicious and easy dinner with these Crunchy Baked Tacos! This recipe takes the stress out of taco night, allowing you to serve up a flavorful meal that everyone will enjoy. Perfect for gatherings or a family dinner, these tacos are baked to crispy perfection and filled with tasty ingredients.
Why make this recipe
This recipe is a great choice for its simplicity and hands-free cooking method. With baked taco shells, each taco can hold plenty of flavorful filling, making them satisfying and fun to eat. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together with friends.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 12 hard taco shells
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup refried beans (optional)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup cilantro
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
How to make it
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Drain the fat from the beef.
- Add the taco seasoning and water to the beef, stirring to combine.
- Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Arrange the taco shells on a foil-lined baking sheet.
- Spread refried beans (if using) inside the taco shells.
- Fill the taco shells with the cooked meat mixture.
- Top each filled shell with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the shells are crunchy.
- Let the tacos cool for 2 minutes.
- Add diced tomatoes, chopped red onion, and cilantro on top of each taco.
How to serve it
Serve your baked tacos hot from the oven, accompanied by sliced avocado, dollops of sour cream, and lime wedges on the side. This way, everyone can customize their tacos to their liking!
How to store it
If you have leftovers, store the baked tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
Helpful tips
- Keep an eye on the tacos while they bake to ensure they don’t overcook.
- If you don’t have ground beef, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey or even bean-based proteins for a vegetarian option.
- Feel free to add additional toppings like jalapeños, olives, or your favorite hot sauce.
Optional variations
Consider experimenting with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for some extra flair. You can also switch up the toppings based on what you enjoy or have on hand.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make the taco filling in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the taco filling a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it before filling the taco shells.
Can I use soft tortillas instead of hard taco shells?
While this recipe is designed for hard taco shells, you can use soft tortillas if you prefer. Adjust the cooking time, as soft tortillas will not need as long in the oven.
What can I serve with these tacos?
These tacos pair perfectly with a side of Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy!
