Name: Oven-Baked Cheesy Tacos Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef; 1 small onion, finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade mix); ⅔ cup tomato sauce or salsa; Salt & pepper to taste; 8 hard taco shells; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend); 1 cup shredded lettuce; ½ cup diced tomatoes; ¼ cup diced red onion; 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (optional); Sour cream (optional); Guacamole (optional); Jalapeño slices (optional); Hot sauce (optional)

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Introduction

Oven-baked cheesy tacos are a delicious twist on a classic favorite. This recipe combines seasoned ground beef with melted cheese and crisp taco shells, topped with fresh veggies for a satisfying meal everyone will love.

The image shows six soft tacos placed in a white rectangular baking dish. Each taco has a golden-yellow corn tortilla filled with browned ground meat, topped with melted orange cheese that covers most of the meat evenly. The tacos are arranged in two rows, side by side, filling the dish neatly. The surface below the dish is a white marbled texture, and a striped red and white cloth is partially visible on the left side. In the background, a small white bowl with fresh chopped green lettuce and a tiny white bowl with red sauce are partially visible. The overall look is warm and inviting. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb (450 g) ground beef
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade mix)
⅔ cup tomato sauce or salsa
Salt & pepper to taste
8 hard taco shells
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
1 cup shredded lettuce
½ cup diced tomatoes
¼ cup diced red onion
2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (optional)
Sour cream (optional)
Guacamole (optional)
Jalapeño slices (optional)
Hot sauce (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the hard taco shells upright in a baking dish to keep their shape while baking.
Step 2: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Add the minced garlic and taco seasoning to the beef mixture, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Pour in the tomato sauce or salsa, stir, and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
Step 5: Spoon the seasoned beef evenly into each taco shell, then generously sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
Step 6: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the taco shells are crisp and golden.
Step 7: Remove from the oven and top each taco with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro if using.
Step 8: Serve immediately with optional sour cream, guacamole, jalapeño slices, or hot sauce to taste.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier version, add jalapeño slices on top before baking.
Customize toppings to your preference—consider adding olives, corn, or avocado slices.
Use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to beef.
Try different cheeses like pepper jack or queso fresco for varied flavors.

Storage

Store any leftover taco filling and shells separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, fill taco shells again and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and cheese is melted, about 8-10 minutes. Avoid storing assembled tacos as the shells may become soggy.

How to Serve

A white rectangular dish holds seven soft tacos arranged side by side, each filled with a rich layer of cooked ground meat mixed with melted orange cheddar cheese. The tacos' tortillas are light beige with a soft, slightly uneven texture, gently folding over the filling. The ground meat looks juicy and well-cooked with a crumbly texture, and the melted cheese adds a smooth, glossy, vibrant orange layer on top. The dish sits on a white marbled surface, accompanied by a small bowl of fresh green lettuce leaves and a woman's hand lightly touching the edge of the dish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use soft tortillas instead of hard taco shells?

Yes, soft tortillas can be used but will require different handling. For best results, assemble after baking or warming the shells separately to avoid sogginess.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils, beans, or a plant-based meat alternative. Season and prepare similarly for a delicious meat-free option.