Crispy Baked Ground Beef Tacos

Tacos are a universal favorite for their bold flavors, versatility, and satisfying crunch. If you’re looking to enjoy this beloved dish with a twist, try these crispy baked ground beef tacos. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way it elevates the classic taco to crispy, golden perfection without the mess of frying. Using lean ground beef and a flavorful combination of taco seasoning and enchilada sauce, these tacos are both hearty and flavorful. They’re easy to make, and the oven does all the work in turning your soft tortillas into crispy delights. These tacos are perfect for any weeknight dinner or even for meal prepping for a crowd. Not only will your family love them, but you’ll appreciate how simple and satisfying they are to make.

In just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious plate of crispy tacos ready to serve, topped with your favorite fillings and sauces. Pair them with sides like Mexican rice, guacamole, or a fresh salsa, and you’ve got yourself a meal that’s sure to please everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Effortless and Quick

This recipe takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a quick meal that’s both delicious and filling.

2. Crispy Texture Without Frying

Thanks to baking, these tacos have the perfect crisp without needing to fry them in oil, which makes them healthier and less messy.

3. Customizable Toppings

The taco filling is simple and versatile, allowing you to add your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, shredded lettuce, or a drizzle of salsa.

4. Perfect for Meal Prep

You can easily make these tacos in bulk, and they store well in the fridge or freezer for a quick and tasty meal later on.

5. Family-Friendly

The combination of seasoned ground beef and melted cheese inside soft corn tortillas is a flavor combination that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

Ingredients

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

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap out the ground beef for black beans or a mixture of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini for a plant-based alternative.
• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for some added heat.
• Cheese Variations: Try different types of cheese such as cheddar, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses to add more flavor and meltiness.
• Crunchier Tacos: For extra crunch, you can brush the outside of the folded tortillas with more olive oil or even butter before baking.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Beef

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Once browned, stir in the taco seasoning and enchilada sauce, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Remove from heat once everything is combined and heated through.

Step 2: Warm the Tortillas

Wrap the corn tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30–60 seconds until they’re pliable.

Step 3: Assemble the Tacos

Brush one side of each tortilla with olive oil. Place the tortilla, oiled side down, on a baking sheet. Add 2 tablespoons of cheese to the center of the tortilla, then top with ¼ cup of the beef mixture. Add another 2 tablespoons of cheese and fold the tortilla over the filling.

Step 4: Bake the Tacos

Arrange the folded tacos in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 16 minutes or until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted.

Step 5: Serve

Let the tacos cool for about 3 minutes before serving. You can top them with your favorite salsa, sour cream, or fresh guacamole.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Warm Tortillas: Be sure to microwave your tortillas before folding them to prevent them from cracking. If they’re too stiff, they may break when folded.
• Pan Choice: Use a nonstick or ceramic baking sheet to avoid tortillas sticking. Avoid aluminum foil, as it may cause the tortillas to stick to it.
• Don’t Overstuff: Be careful not to overstuff your tacos with filling; a small amount goes a long way, ensuring the taco folds properly and crisps up in the oven.

How to Serve

These crispy baked ground beef tacos are best served with a variety of toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, fresh cilantro, and your favorite hot sauce. Pair them with sides such as Mexican rice, refried beans, or a tangy fruit salad for a complete meal. For a festive touch, add some freshly made guacamole or pico de gallo on the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once assembled and baked, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you plan to store the taco filling separately, it can stay in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

To freeze the tacos, allow them to cool completely and place them in a freezer-safe container. You can freeze them for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes or until crispy.

Reheating

To reheat your crispy baked tacos, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes or until they regain their crispiness. Alternatively, you can use an air fryer for about 5–6 minutes for a quick and crispy result.

FAQs

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

Yes, you can use flour tortillas, but keep in mind that they may not get as crispy as corn tortillas. Make sure to adjust the cooking time if you use them.

2. How do I keep the taco filling from spilling out?

Don’t overstuff the tacos, and be sure the tortillas are pliable when folding. If they still leak, try securing the folded edge with a toothpick before baking.

3. Can I make these tacos spicy?

Yes! Add some chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the ground beef mixture to add heat.

4. How can I make these tacos gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free corn tortillas and make sure the taco seasoning you use is gluten-free.

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

Absolutely! You can make the taco filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just reheat it before assembling the tacos.

6. How long will these tacos stay crispy?

They stay crispy for about 10–15 minutes after baking, but they will soften as they cool. It’s best to serve them immediately.

7. Can I freeze the taco filling separately?

Yes, the taco filling freezes well. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before storing in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months.

8. How do I avoid my tortillas breaking when folding?

Be sure to microwave the tortillas before folding to soften them, and use enough oil to prevent sticking. If necessary, secure the tacos with toothpicks.

9. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use any type of cheese you prefer, such as cheddar, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.

10. What toppings are best for these tacos?

Top them with fresh salsa, guacamole, sour cream, shredded lettuce, and diced tomatoes for a flavorful and colorful taco experience.

Conclusion

These crispy baked ground beef tacos are a fun, delicious, and easy-to-make version of a beloved dish. With their crispy, golden tortillas, savory taco filling, and melted cheese, they offer the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Plus, they’re customizable with your favorite toppings and sauces, making them suitable for any taco night. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing a quick meal for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your weekly dinner rotation. Try them tonight and enjoy the crunch!

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