why make this recipe

Oven-Baked Cheesy Tacos are an easy and tasty dinner option that everyone will love. They are loaded with delicious flavors, and the combination of melted cheese and seasoned meat makes for a satisfying meal. Plus, baking the tacos gives them a crispy texture without the hassle of frying. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with family and friends.

how to make Oven-Baked Cheesy Tacos

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

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with foil.
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Stir in the taco seasoning, tomato sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
Fill each taco shell with the meat mixture, generously sprinkle cheese on top, and place them standing side by side in the baking dish.
Bake in the oven for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tacos are lightly crispy.
Remove from the oven and top each taco with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro. Add sour cream, guacamole, or hot sauce if desired.

how to serve Oven-Baked Cheesy Tacos

Serve the Oven-Baked Cheesy Tacos hot from the oven. These tacos are great on their own or accompanied by sides like rice or beans. You can also set up a taco bar with various toppings so everyone can customize their tacos according to their taste.

how to store Oven-Baked Cheesy Tacos

To store leftovers, place the tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for about 2-3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but the oven will help keep the tacos crispy.

tips to make Oven-Baked Cheesy Tacos

You can make the meat mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
If you want extra crispy tacos, bake them a little longer, but keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Feel free to add your favorite veggies, like corn or black beans, to the meat mixture for added nutrition.

variation

You can make these tacos vegetarian by using black beans or lentils instead of meat. You can also try different types of cheese for a unique flavor or use hard taco shells for a crunchier texture.

FAQs

Can I freeze leftover cheesy tacos?
Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap individual tacos in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. They can last for about 1-2 months in the freezer.

Can I use different kinds of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work just as well. You can even use plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian option.

What can I do if I don’t have taco seasoning?
You can make your own by mixing spices like chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, and salt. This way, you control the flavors and ingredients!

Oven-Baked Cheesy Tacos