Name: Baked Crispy Ground Beef Tacos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1.25 pounds lean ground beef; 1/2 cup tomato sauce; 2 tablespoons taco seasoning ((or 1 packet)); 10 pieces crispy taco shells; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese ((or Mexican blend)); shredded lettuce; pico de gallo; corn salsa; sour cream; guacamole

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There’s something incredibly satisfying about sinking your teeth into a perfectly baked taco, with a crispy shell and a flavorful filling that just sings of comfort and joy. These Baked Crispy Ground Beef Tacos are a family favorite and a go-to recipe that makes dinner both fun and delicious. With lean ground beef, zesty spices, and all the fixings, you can whip up a batch of these tacos in no time, making them perfect for busy weeknights or a casual gathering with friends.

Why It’s My Go-To

Why are these Baked Crispy Ground Beef Tacos my go-to? It’s simple: they’re easy, versatile, and always a hit. The recipe brings together the hearty flavors of ground beef and taco seasoning, all wrapped up in crispy taco shells that hold everything together beautifully. Plus, they’re customizable with a variety of toppings, allowing everyone to build their dream taco. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just yourself, these tacos are a delicious way to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredient Breakdown

To create these tasty Baked Crispy Ground Beef Tacos, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1.25 pounds lean ground beef: This is the star of the show, providing a hearty and flavorful protein base.
1/2 cup tomato sauce: Adds moisture and a rich tomato flavor that complements the spices.
2 tablespoons taco seasoning (or 1 packet): This blend of spices brings all the classic taco flavors to life.
10 crispy taco shells: The perfect vessel for holding all your delicious fillings. Feel free to use more if you like larger tacos!
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend): Melts beautifully and adds that cheesy goodness we all love.
Shredded lettuce: Adds a fresh crunch and a pop of color to your tacos.
Pico de gallo: A fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, adding brightness and flavor.
Corn salsa: Sweet and tangy, this salsa adds a delightful contrast to the richness of the beef.
Sour cream: A creamy topping that balances the spices and adds a cool finish.
Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole is the ultimate taco topping.

What’s in the Gear List

Before you dive into the cooking process, gather these kitchen essentials:

Large skillet: For browning the ground beef and mixing in the seasonings.
Wooden spoon or spatula: To stir and break apart the beef as it cooks.
Baking dish: To hold your loaded taco shells as they bake in the oven.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Oven mitts: Safety first when handling hot dishes.

Stepwise Method: Baked Crispy Ground Beef Tacos

Follow these simple steps to create your Baked Crispy Ground Beef Tacos:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your taco shells will be perfectly crispy when they come out of the oven.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the 1.25 pounds of lean ground beef. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break the beef apart as it cooks. Brown it until fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.

Step 3: Add Tomato Sauce and Seasoning

Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat. Stir in the 1/2 cup of tomato sauce and 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning. Mix well and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Prepare the Taco Shells

While the beef is simmering, arrange your crispy taco shells in a baking dish. You can stand them up in the dish or lay them flat, depending on your preference and the size of your shells.

Step 5: Fill the Taco Shells

Spoon the beef mixture evenly into each taco shell, filling them generously.

Step 6: Add Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the filled taco shells.

Step 7: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the taco shells are crispy.

Step 8: Prepare Toppings

While the tacos are baking, prepare your toppings. Chop the shredded lettuce, pico de gallo, and any other toppings you fancy.

Step 9: Serve

Once the tacos are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Serve hot with your choice of toppings, including shredded lettuce, pico de gallo, corn salsa, sour cream, and guacamole.

Allergy-Friendly Swaps

If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, here are some easy swaps you can make:

Use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a leaner option.
Swap the cheese for dairy-free cheese to make it vegan-friendly.
Replace the taco seasoning with homemade seasoning if you have spice allergies.
Use gluten-free taco shells if you need to avoid gluten.

Problems & Prevention

While making Baked Crispy Ground Beef Tacos is straightforward, here are some common issues and how to prevent them:

Soggy Shells: Make sure to drain the beef well after cooking and avoid overfilling the taco shells with the beef mixture. This will help keep the shells crispy.
Uneven Cooking: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking the tacos, and keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Flavorless Filling: Don’t skimp on the seasoning! Using a good quality taco seasoning will enhance the overall flavor of the beef.
Melty Cheese: If you prefer your cheese extra melty, you can put the tacos back in the oven for a couple of minutes after adding the toppings.

Make-Ahead & Storage

These Baked Crispy Ground Beef Tacos can be made ahead of time for convenience:

Make Ahead: You can prepare the beef mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, just fill the taco shells and bake!
Storing Leftovers: If you have leftover tacos, store the filling and shells separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The filling can last for 3-4 days, while the shells should be consumed within 2 days to maintain their crispiness.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the beef in a skillet and fill fresh taco shells before serving.

Quick Q&A

Can I freeze the beef mixture?

Yes! The beef mixture can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of salsa?

Absolutely! Fresh diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro make a wonderful topping if you prefer them over salsa.

What can I serve on the side?

These tacos pair well with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.

Can I make these tacos vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ground beef with black beans, lentils, or a meat alternative for a delicious vegetarian taco.

Save & Share

If you love these Baked Crispy Ground Beef Tacos as much as I do, don’t forget to save this recipe and share it with your friends and family! It’s one of those dishes that brings people together around the table, and I guarantee it will become a favorite in your household too.

Baked Crispy Ground Beef Tacos are more than just a meal; they’re an experience full of flavor and fun. With their crispy shells and customizable toppings, they are perfect for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and enjoy every delicious bite. Happy cooking!