Crispy Baked Ground Beef Tacos

If you’re craving a quick, easy, and mouthwatering taco recipe, these crispy baked ground beef tacos are just what you need! Perfectly crispy on the outside, yet warm and cheesy on the inside, these tacos are packed with flavor and sure to become a family favorite. Made with simple ingredients like lean ground beef, taco seasoning, and enchilada sauce, these tacos offer a delightful twist on the traditional fried version. Instead of frying, they are baked to perfection, making them a healthier and hassle-free option without compromising on taste or texture.

These crispy tacos are filled with seasoned ground beef and topped with melted cheese, creating a satisfying crunch in every bite. You can enjoy them on their own or pair them with your favorite toppings such as guacamole, salsa, and sour cream. This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to adjust the ingredients and toppings to suit your personal preferences. Whether it’s for Taco Tuesday or a quick weeknight dinner, these baked tacos are bound to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Crispy Texture: Unlike soft tacos or fried versions, these baked tacos offer the perfect crispy crunch, making each bite irresistible.
2. Quick and Easy: With minimal preparation and only a few ingredients, this recipe can be on your table in under 30 minutes.
3. Healthier Option: Baking the tacos instead of frying them means less oil and a healthier meal without sacrificing flavor.
4. Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite fillings or toppings to suit your taste.
5. Kid-Friendly: The crispy texture and cheesy filling make these tacos a hit with both kids and adults, perfect for family meals.

Ingredients

• Lean ground beef (90% lean)
• Taco seasoning
• Red enchilada sauce
• Oaxaca cheese, Mexican cheese, or Monterey Jack cheese
• Corn tortillas
• Olive oil

Variations

• Swap the Protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even ground beef alternatives like plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian option.
• Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or chili flakes to the ground beef mixture for an extra spicy flavor.
• Cheese Choices: Try a combination of different cheeses such as cheddar, pepper jack, or even queso fresco for a unique twist.
• Add Vegetables: Toss in some sautéed onions, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free corn tortillas to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Once browned, stir in the taco seasoning and red enchilada sauce. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes, then remove from heat.

Step 3: Warm the Tortillas

Wrap the corn tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30–60 seconds to make them pliable.

Step 4: Assemble the Tacos

Brush one side of each tortilla with olive oil and place it on a baking sheet, oiled side down. Add a couple of tablespoons of cheese to half of the tortilla, then top with about ¼ cup of the beef mixture. Sprinkle more cheese over the beef, and fold the tortilla in half.

Step 5: Bake

Arrange the tacos in a single layer on the baking sheet and bake for 16 minutes or until the tortillas are crispy and the cheese is melted.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow the tacos to cool for 3 minutes before serving. Garnish with your favorite toppings like salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Warm Tortillas: Ensure that the tortillas are warm and pliable before folding them. This will prevent them from cracking.
• Cheese Distribution: Layer the cheese both inside and on top of the beef to ensure the tacos stay cheesy and flavorful.
• Use Nonstick Pans: If possible, bake the tacos on a nonstick or ceramic baking sheet. Avoid using foil as tortillas may stick to it.
• Don’t Overfill: Be cautious not to overstuff the tacos. Overfilling can cause the filling to spill out during baking.

How to Serve

Serve these crispy baked beef tacos with classic toppings like guacamole, pico de gallo, or salsa. Pair them with sides such as Mexican rice, refried beans, or a refreshing Mexican fruit salad for a complete meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These tacos are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to maintain their crispy texture.

Freezing

To freeze, assemble the tacos (without baking) and place them in a freezer-safe container or on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 450°F for 18-20 minutes.

Reheating

To reheat, place the tacos in a skillet over medium heat and cook each side for 2-5 minutes until crispy and warm. Alternatively, use an oven at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?

Yes! While corn tortillas are traditionally used for a crispier texture, flour tortillas can be used. Just be sure to adjust the baking time as they may take a little less time to crisp up.

2. Can I make the taco filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the taco filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to use, simply warm it up and proceed with assembling the tacos.

3. How can I make these tacos spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or red chili flakes to the beef mixture or top with a spicy salsa.

4. Can I bake the tacos without folding them?

Yes, you can bake the tortillas flat with the filling on top. Just be sure to keep an eye on them as the baking time may be slightly shorter.

5. How do I prevent the tacos from becoming soggy?

Make sure the tortillas are warmed and slightly oiled before folding, and avoid overstuffing the tacos.

6. Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Yes! Monterey Jack, Cheddar, or even Pepper Jack cheese all work well in this recipe.

7. Can I use homemade taco seasoning?

Yes, you can substitute store-bought seasoning with your homemade version.

8. How can I make these tacos more kid-friendly?

Leave out the spicy ingredients and keep the filling mild. You can also serve with a side of guacamole or mild salsa.

9. How long do I bake these tacos?

Bake the tacos for 16 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy.

10. Can I make these tacos vegetarian?

Yes, replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein, such as lentils or vegetarian taco meat.

Conclusion

Crispy baked ground beef tacos are the perfect combination of savory, cheesy, and crispy! They’re quick, easy to make, and perfect for any weeknight dinner or Taco Tuesday. With customizable fillings, they can easily be adjusted to your preferences, whether you like them spicy, extra cheesy, or with a bit of crunch. Try these tacos once, and they’ll become your new go-to recipe for taco night!

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