These Ground Beef Baked Tacos are a fun and easy way to enjoy dinner! With seasoned beef, cheese, and all your favorite toppings, they’re crispy, cheesy goodness baked to perfection.
I love how simple these tacos are to make—just fill, bake, and serve! Plus, who doesn’t like a taco night? Get ready for a tasty meal that even the kids will love! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you’re looking for a plant-based choice, try using lentils or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat.
Onion & Garlic: Diced onions add sweetness, while garlic gives an aromatic kick. If you don’t have fresh, use onion powder and garlic powder instead—just remember to adjust the quantities since they’re more concentrated.
Taco Seasoning: A packet of taco seasoning is super convenient. You can easily make your own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, and a pinch of salt. This way, you can control the heat level!
Tortillas: Use corn or flour tortillas based on your preference. I love corn for the authentic flavor, but flour is great for a chewy texture. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free tortillas or lettuce wraps.
Cheese: While cheddar is the go-to, you can mix in Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a little heat. Vegan cheese can also work if you’re dairy-free!
How Do You Cook the Ground Beef Perfectly?
Cooking the ground beef well is essential. Here’s how to ensure it’s flavorful and not greasy:
- Start with a medium-high heat to get a nice sear. This helps lock in the juices.
- Break the beef apart as you cook to ensure it browns evenly. Let it sit a bit before stirring to develop flavor.
- Don’t rush adding the onions and garlic; let them cook until the onion becomes translucent for the best flavor.
How Do You Fold Your Tacos for the Best Result?
Folding your tacos properly makes them easier to eat and hold together:
- Place a spoonful of the beef mixture in the center of the tortilla, keeping it away from the edges.
- Sprinkle cheese on top, then fold the sides over the filling. Rolling it towards the bottom helps keep everything inside.
- Arrange them snugly in the baking dish to help them hold their shape while baking.
With these tips, your ground beef baked tacos will turn out flavorful and delicious! Enjoy the cooking process!
How to Make Ground Beef Baked Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
For the Tacos:
- 8 small tortillas (corn or flour)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
- 1 cup refried beans (optional)
For Garnish:
- Diced tomatoes (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Sour cream (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes from start to enjoy! Perfect for a quick dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot by the time you’re ready to bake your tacos!
2. Brown the Beef:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. This ensures it cooks evenly and is nice and crumbly.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook these together until the onion becomes translucent, which should take a few minutes. This will add a wonderful flavor to your beef!
4. Season It Up:
Stir in the taco seasoning along with the 1/2 cup of water. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the flavors come together nicely!
5. Prepare the Baking Dish:
If you’re using refried beans, spread a thin layer of them on the bottom of a baking dish. This will help prevent the tortillas from sticking and add a delicious layer of flavor!
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Take a tortilla and lay it flat in the baking dish. Add a spoonful of your beef mixture, followed by a sprinkle of cheese. Then, fold the tortilla over to form a taco shape. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling until you have them all assembled in the dish.
7. Top It Off:
Once all the tacos are in the dish, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. This will melt beautifully as it bakes!
8. Bake the Tacos:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the cheese is melted and bubbly—this is when they’re just perfect!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Take the tacos out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. If you like, you can garnish them with diced tomatoes and chopped cilantro for extra freshness and color.
10. Enjoy!
Serve your delicious baked tacos warm with a side of sour cream for dipping or drizzling. Enjoy this tasty meal with family or friends!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef and will still deliver a delicious taco flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as turkey may cook a bit quicker. It’s also a great way to lighten up the dish!
Can I Prepare the Beef Mixture in Advance?
Yes, you can! Cook the beef mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just reheat it in a skillet before assembling the tacos. This makes meal prep a breeze, and you’ll save some time on taco night!
What Can I Use Instead of Refried Beans?
If you don’t have refried beans or want to avoid them, you can use black beans or pinto beans instead. Simply mash them slightly or leave them whole for added texture. You can also skip the beans altogether if preferred, but they do help with moisture and flavor.
How Do I Store Leftover Baked Tacos?
Store any leftover baked tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through, or pop them in the microwave for a quick option!
