These Ground Beef Baked Tacos are a fun twist on traditional tacos! With flavorful beef, cheese, and your favorite toppings, they’re baked until crispy and ready to eat.
Let’s face it, who doesn’t love anything that can be held in one hand? Pair these with a side of salsa and watch them disappear at your next dinner! 😋
I enjoy making these tacos because they’re so easy. Just fill, bake, and serve! My family loves adding extra toppings like fresh salsa and avocado for a tasty boost!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef (80/20) for a balanced flavor. If you’re looking for healthier options, ground turkey or chicken can work too. For a plant-based version, try textured vegetable protein (TVP) or lentils for an earthy taste.
Taco Seasoning: A packet makes it easy, but you can whip up homemade seasoning using chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. This way, you can control the spice level. I also like adding a pinch of cayenne for extra heat!
Tortillas: Corn tortillas give a nice crunch. If you prefer a softer texture, go for flour tortillas. Just remember to warm them first to prevent cracking. Gluten-free tortillas are also a great substitute if needed.
Cheddar Cheese: While sharp cheddar is the classic choice, feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a twist. Cheese alternatives like vegan cheese are available if you’re avoiding dairy.
How Do I Make Sure My Ground Beef is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking ground beef properly ensures it’s flavorful and safe to eat. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by heating the skillet on medium. This helps brown the meat without burning.
- Add the beef, breaking it up into small pieces. Stir often for even cooking.
- Cook until it’s no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. You can use a meat thermometer; it should reach at least 160°F (71°C) for safety.
- Don’t forget to drain excess grease to avoid a greasy taco bake. This step is key for texture!
How to Make Ground Beef Baked Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade)
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (14.5 ounces)
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce (for serving)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (for serving)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (for serving)
- Olive oil (for greasing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and 35 minutes to cook, totaling around 45 minutes. You’ll sauté your ingredients, layer everything in a baking dish, and bake it all together for a cheesy, satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake your tacos.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle in some olive oil. Add the diced onion and sauté until it’s translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for one more minute, letting those wonderful aromas fill your kitchen!
3. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Brown the beef until it’s fully cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Make sure it’s nice and crumbly!
4. Add Seasoning and Tomatoes:
Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess grease from the skillet. Stir in the taco seasoning and the diced tomatoes (with the juices!). Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is where all the flavors come together!
5. Prepare the Baking Dish:
While your beef mixture is simmering, grease a baking dish with a bit of olive oil. This helps prevent sticking and makes for easier serving. Now, place half of your corn tortillas in the bottom of the dish, overlapping them slightly if needed.
6. Layer the Tacos:
Spread half of the delicious ground beef mixture over the tortillas. Then, sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Repeat this process by adding the remaining tortillas, followed by the rest of the beef mixture, and finally top it all off with the remaining cheese.
7. Bake:
Cover your baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes. The cheese should be melted and bubbly—just what you want!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once cooked, take the baked tacos out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Then slice them into portions. Serve warm with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sour cream on the side for everyone to top their tacos as they like!
Enjoy your tasty Ground Beef Baked Tacos!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative. Just keep in mind that it may require a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor, as it can be milder than beef. Follow the same cooking instructions and ensure it’s fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want to kick up the heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the ground beef mixture. You can also use a spicy taco seasoning blend instead of the regular one!
What Should I Do with Leftover Taco Mixture?
Leftover taco mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can use it in burritos, salads, or quesadillas! Just reheat it thoroughly on the stovetop or in the microwave before using.
Can I Freeze Baked Tacos?
Yes, you can freeze baked tacos! After assembling but before baking, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from frozen.
