Crispy Baked Ground Beef Tacos

These crispy baked ground beef tacos are an easy and delicious way to enjoy a classic Mexican-inspired meal with a crunchy twist. Instead of frying, the tacos are baked in the oven, making them crispier while keeping the filling juicy and flavorful. Perfect for taco nights, family dinners, or casual get-togethers, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

What Are Crispy Baked Ground Beef Tacos?

Crispy baked ground beef tacos are hard-shell tacos filled with seasoned beef, cheese, and optional refried beans, then baked until golden and crispy. Baking enhances the crunch of the shells while melting the cheese perfectly, creating a satisfying bite every time. These tacos are easy to customize with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and sour cream.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy, cheesy, and flavorful – Baking locks in the flavor while giving the shells a perfect crunch.
• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable – Use different cheeses, add beans, or switch up the toppings to suit your taste.
• Less mess than frying – No need for deep-frying; the oven does all the work.

Ingredients

For the Tacos:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet (or 2 tbsp) taco seasoning
• ½ cup (120ml) tomato sauce
• 12 hard taco shells
• 1 ½ cups (170g) shredded Mexican blend or cheddar cheese
• ½ cup (120g) refried beans (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 1 tbsp oil (for brushing shells)

Optional Toppings:

• Shredded lettuce
• Diced tomatoes
• Sour cream
• Salsa
• Fresh cilantro

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish to prevent sticking.

2. Cook the Beef Filling

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion is soft (about 5-7 minutes).
2. Drain any excess grease.
3. Stir in the garlic, taco seasoning, and tomato sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

3. Assemble the Tacos

1. If using refried beans, spread a thin layer inside each taco shell.
2. Spoon the beef mixture into each shell, filling about three-quarters full.
3. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the beef filling.

4. Bake the Tacos

1. Arrange the tacos upright in the greased baking dish.
2. Lightly brush the shells with oil to enhance their crispiness.
3. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the shells are golden brown.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Remove the tacos from the oven and add your favorite toppings. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Mexican rice or black beans for a complete meal.
• Serve with a side of guacamole and chips for extra flavor.
• Enjoy with a refreshing margarita or a cold glass of horchata.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Store leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to retain crispiness.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze the beef filling separately in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before assembling fresh tacos.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
• Ground Turkey or Chicken – Swap beef for lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Vegetarian Version – Replace beef with black beans, lentils, or a meat substitute.
• Cheesy Upgrade – Add queso fresco or extra cheese for a gooier taco.

FAQs

Can I use soft tortillas instead of hard taco shells?
Yes! If using soft tortillas, warm them slightly before filling and bake as directed for a crispy, oven-baked finish.

How do I prevent the taco shells from getting soggy?
Brushing the shells with a little oil before baking helps keep them crisp. Also, avoid overloading with sauce-heavy ingredients.

Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the beef mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble and bake when ready to serve.

These crispy baked ground beef tacos are an easy, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing meal perfect for any night of the week. With a crunchy shell, cheesy filling, and endless topping possibilities, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Try them today and let me know how you liked them!

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