Description
Mexican-inspired ground beef baked tacos bring sizzling flavors straight to dinner tables with crispy shells and melted cheese. Hungry diners will discover a simple yet delicious meal that combines zesty seasonings and classic taco ingredients for maximum satisfaction.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat:
- 1 pound (1 lb) ground beef
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables and Aromatics:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Taco Components:
- 10 taco-size flour or corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Garnishes:
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
Optional Toppings:
- Salsa
- Sour cream
Instructions
- Prepare the oven by heating to 375°F, creating the perfect environment for baking crispy tacos.
- In a skillet, sauté onions until translucent, then add garlic and cook briefly to release aromatic flavors.
- Introduce ground beef to the skillet, breaking it down and cooking until completely browned, eliminating any pink areas.
- Enhance the meat with a blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, allowing the spices to meld for maximum flavor intensity.
- Create a protective base layer in the baking dish using a thin spread of the seasoned beef mixture.
- Construct taco layers by placing tortillas in the dish, topping each with the spiced beef and generously sprinkling cheddar cheese.
- Continue layering tortillas, beef, and cheese until ingredients are exhausted, ensuring cheese covers the top layer.
- Shield the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes, trapping moisture and ensuring even heating.
- Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese turns golden and bubbly.
- Allow tacos to rest briefly after removing from the oven to set the layers and cool slightly.
- Finish by adorning with fresh shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes for a crisp, vibrant presentation.
- Serve immediately with optional side condiments like salsa or sour cream for personalized flavor enhancement.
Notes
- Customize the heat level by adjusting chili powder for spice-sensitive diners or those who love bold flavors.
- Select lean ground beef to reduce fat content and create a healthier version of this comfort dish.
- Experiment with corn or whole wheat tortillas for gluten-free or more nutritious alternatives to traditional flour tortillas.
- Prep ahead by cooking beef mixture in advance and assembling tacos just before baking to save time during busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg