Introduction
If you’re looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds, these Oven Baked Cheesy Tacos are just what you need. Imagine the aroma of seasoned ground beef mingling with melted cheese, all nestled in crispy taco shells. This dish is loaded with flavor and is perfect for a family dinner or a fun Taco Tuesday night. Plus, they’re easy to make and even easier to customize to your taste. Let’s dive into this deliciously cheesy goodness!
Ingredients
- 12 taco shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup water
- 1 can refried beans
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup sliced olives
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 12 tacos
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the cheese gets perfectly melted and bubbly.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s beautifully browned. Drain any excess fat to keep your tacos from becoming greasy.
- Add the taco seasoning and water to the beef, stirring well to combine. Cook according to package instructions until the mixture is thick and fragrant.
- Arrange the taco shells in a baking dish and spread a generous layer of refried beans inside each one. This hearty layer adds flavor and helps hold everything together.
- Fill each taco shell with the seasoned beef mixture, packing it in to get all that flavor in every bite.
- Top each taco with a wonderful mound of shredded cheddar cheese—because who can resist melted cheese?
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden, gooey, and bubbling with joy.
- Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. This will help when you top them so they don’t fall apart.
- At last, it’s time to dress your tacos! Add diced tomatoes, a sprinkle of shredded lettuce, a dollop of sour cream, sliced olives, and a sprinkle of green onions on top.
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize your tacos! You can add jalapeños for a spicy kick, or swap the ground beef for ground turkey or shredded chicken for a lighter option. Don’t hesitate to load them up with your favorite toppings!
Cooking Techniques
For perfectly browned ground beef, break it up with a wooden spoon while cooking, allowing it to get that nice texture. When arranging the taco shells, consider placing them upright in the baking dish to ensure even baking and to help retain their shape.
FAQ
- Can I make these tacos in advance? Yes! You can prepare the beef mixture and assemble the tacos ahead of time, then simply bake them when you’re ready to serve.
- What if I want to make them vegetarian? Absolutely! Use black beans or lentils as a filling, and substitute the cheese with a plant-based version if desired.
Conclusion
These Oven Baked Cheesy Tacos are an unforgettable treat that brings a warm, family-friendly vibe to any table. With just a bit of preparation, you can serve up a delightful meal that satisfies every palate. So gather around the table, enjoy the burst of flavors, and make lasting memories over these cheesy delights!