Description
Oven-baked cheesy tacos easily fit the bill for a satisfying meal. These tasty bites transform everyday ingredients into a family favorite, perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade mix)
- ½ cup tomato sauce or salsa
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 10 small taco shells (flour or corn, slightly warmed)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- ½ cup red onion, diced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Optional toppings: Sour cream, jalapeños, guacamole, hot sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish or line it with foil for easy cleanup.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up as it cooks. Stir in taco seasoning, tomato sauce, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Fill each taco shell with the meat mixture. Sprinkle generously with shredded cheese, then place them standing side by side in the baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes until the cheese melts and the tacos turn lightly crispy.
- Remove from oven and top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, red onion, and fresh cilantro. Feel free to add sour cream, guacamole, or hot sauce if desired.
Notes
Feel free to personalize the taco filling with beans, corn, or peppers for extra texture and taste. A blend of cheeses adds a richer flavor profile.