Welcome to a fusion of flavor and ease with this oven baked cheesy tacos recipe. A delightful twist on the traditional taco, this dish gives you a warm, satisfying meal that’s both easy to prepare and scrumptious to eat. Perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers, this recipe will fill your kitchen with a mouth-watering aroma and bring smiles to the faces of everyone who tries it!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 12 taco shells
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced olives (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (for garnish)
Equipments
- Oven
- Baking dish
- Skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
How to Make Oven Baked Cheesy Tacos – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients to ensure you have everything you need at hand. This includes chopping the onions, tomatoes, and cilantro, and setting aside all other measured ingredients. It’s a simple step, but essential for smooth and uninterrupted cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s fully browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat, return to the stove, and stir in the taco seasoning and 1/4 cup of water. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This step ensures that your beef is flavorful and ready for the tacos.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). As your oven warms up, you can work on filling the tacos. Preheating ensures that the tacos will bake evenly, achieving that perfect crunchy texture.
Step 4: Assemble the Tacos
Place the taco shells in a baking dish. Spoon the cooked beef mixture evenly into each shell. Top with chopped onions, tomatoes, olives, and a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese, spreading it evenly across each taco. Proper assembly will ensure an even distribution of flavors in every bite.
Step 5: Bake in the Oven
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbling. The goal is to warm the shells and melt the cheese without burning. Your nose will probably tell you when they’re about ready!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the baking dish from the oven. Sprinkle fresh cilantro over the tacos for a pop of color and fresh taste. Serve with a side of salsa and sour cream for extra flavor. Now it’s time to dig in and enjoy your culinary creation!
How to Serve Oven Baked Cheesy Tacos
Serve the oven baked cheesy tacos hot, straight from the oven. Pair with a fresh green salad or a side of rice and beans for a full meal. Use a dollop of sour cream or guacamole as a creamy finishing touch. Enjoy with family and friends, making every dinner a memorable occasion.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For best results, use freshly grated cheese which melts better than pre-shredded. Adjust the spiciness by choosing a mild or hot salsa. For added protein, consider adding black beans. It’s a flexible recipe that can accommodate your family’s taste preferences!
High Protein Twist: Packed with Energy
Elevate these oven baked cheesy tacos with a protein boost by incorporating black beans and quinoa into the beef mixture. Not only does it add fiber, but also layers of flavor and texture. This version makes an excellent option for those looking to increase their protein intake while enjoying the deliciousness of their tacos.
For even more protein, sprinkle sautéed mushrooms and corn into your mix. These hearty ingredients not only complement the beef but also create a filling meal that is both nutritious and mouth-watering.
Low Carb Delight: A Healthier Twist on Classic Tacos
If you’re watching your carb intake, opt for low-carb tortillas or enjoy the cheesy taco mixture over a bed of lettuce to make a delightful taco salad. This version maintains all the classic flavors with fewer carbs, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Incorporate veggies like zucchini or bell peppers into the beef mixture for added nutrients and flavor while reducing carbohydrates. Enjoy all the taste with a fraction of the carbs, perfect for a healthier lifestyle.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, store the meat separately from the shells to avoid sogginess. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes. Freezing is not recommended as it impacts the texture of the taco shells.
FAQs
- Can I make these tacos ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and assemble the tacos a day in advance. Just bake them fresh when ready to eat.
- What other cheeses can I use? Feel free to substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for different flavors.
- How do I keep taco shells from getting soggy? Pre-bake the shells for a few minutes before filling them to keep them crispy.
- Are these tacos gluten-free? Yes, if you use gluten-free taco shells and seasonings.
- Can this recipe be doubled? Absolutely! Just ensure that the baking dish is large enough to accommodate more tacos, or use two dishes.
Bring the Recipe Home: Invite Your Friends for a Taco Night!
These oven baked cheesy tacos are not only a treat for the taste buds but also an easy dish to prepare for gatherings. Pair with your favorite toppings and invite your friends over to share a delightful meal. Don’t forget to share your experience by leaving a comment or sharing the recipe across your social networks. Enjoy and happy cooking!
Oven Baked Cheesy Tacos
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- taco seasoning
- taco shells
- shredded cheddar cheese
- salsa
- chopped onions
- chopped tomatoes
- sliced olives
- chopped cilantro
Instructions
Steps
- Gather and prepare all necessary ingredients, ensuring onions, tomatoes, and cilantro are chopped.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked, then add taco seasoning and water, allowing the mixture to simmer.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place taco shells in a baking dish, filling each with the beef mixture and topping with onions, tomatoes, olives, and cheese.
- Bake for about 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy with salsa and sour cream if desired.