Ground Beef Baked Tacos: A Crispy, Flavor-Packed Delight

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If you love tacos, but want a crispy, cheesy, and oven-baked twist, these Ground Beef Baked Tacos are just what you need! This easy recipe delivers a perfectly seasoned beef filling, crunchy baked shells, and melty cheese, making them a fantastic option for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or parties. With only 5 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking, you can have a batch of delicious baked tacos ready in no time.

Why You’ll Love These Ground Beef Baked Tacos

✅ Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
✅ Crispy & Cheesy: Baking locks in flavors and gives the tacos a crunchy texture.
✅ Perfect for a Crowd: Easy to double or triple for gatherings or game nights.
✅ Make-Ahead Friendly: Freezer-friendly and reheats well for meal prep.
✅ Customizable: Add your favorite toppings to suit your taste.

Ingredients for Ground Beef Baked Tacos

To make these delicious baked tacos, you’ll need:

For the Taco Meat:

• 1 lb ground beef – Lean ground beef works best for flavor and texture.
• 1 tsp salt – Enhances the overall taste.
• 1/2 tsp black pepper – Adds a mild, earthy spice.
• 2 tsp chili powder – Gives the taco meat a warm, smoky kick.
• 1 tsp garlic powder – Enhances depth and aroma.
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika – Adds a subtle smokiness.
• 1 tsp cumin – Provides a warm, earthy, and slightly nutty flavor.
• 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper powder – Optional, for a bit of extra heat.
• 2 tbsp tomato paste – Adds richness and a slight tangy depth.
• 1 tbsp water – Helps distribute the seasonings evenly.

For the Baked Tacos:

• 3 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend – A mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and queso quesadilla for melty goodness.
• 12 street taco size white corn tortillas – About 5.5” in diameter, perfect for a crispy shell.

How to Make Ground Beef Baked Tacos

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Set your oven to 425°F.
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Taco Seasoning

• In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper.
• In a separate small bowl, mix tomato paste and water and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Heat a frying pan over medium heat and add the ground beef.
2. Cook for 5 minutes, breaking the beef apart as it browns.
3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the spice mixture along with the tomato paste mixture.
4. Stir and sauté until fully cooked (about 2-3 minutes). Remove from heat.

Step 4: Assemble the Tacos

1. Lay 6 corn tortillas flat on the lined baking sheet.
2. Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese over each tortilla.
3. Add 2 tbsp of taco meat to one side of each tortilla.

Step 5: Bake the Tacos

1. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 3 minutes.
2. Remove the tacos from the oven and fold them in half, pressing lightly to keep them closed.
3. Return to the oven and bake for another 5 minutes until the shells are crispy and cheese is fully melted.
4. Repeat with the remaining 6 tortillas.

Step 6: Cool & Serve

• Let the tacos cool slightly, then add your favorite toppings and enjoy!

Topping Ideas for Baked Tacos

Take your Ground Beef Baked Tacos to the next level with these delicious toppings:

• Shredded lettuce – Adds crunch and freshness.
• Diced tomatoes – Adds juiciness and vibrant color.
• Sour cream – Balances out the spice.
• Avocado slices or guacamole – Adds a creamy richness.
• Jalapeño slices – For an extra kick.
• Fresh cilantro – Enhances flavor with a fresh, herby touch.
• Hot sauce or salsa – Adds tanginess and heat.

Make-Ahead & Freezer Instructions

These Ground Beef Baked Tacos are perfect for meal prep. Here’s how to store and reheat them:

Freezing Instructions:

• Let the tacos cool completely.
• Wrap them in sets of three in foil.
• Place wrapped tacos in a sealed freezer bag.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating from Frozen:

• For a crispy shell: Open the foil packet and bake at 250°F for 15 minutes.
• For a soft shell: Place on a plate, cover with a wet paper towel, and microwave for 2-3 minutes.

Expert Tips for the Best Baked Tacos

✅ Use Fresh Tortillas: Fresh corn tortillas hold their shape better when baked.
✅ Double the Batch: These tacos are great for leftovers and meal prep.
✅ Cheese First, Then Meat: This helps prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy.
✅ Press Down Lightly: Helps the tacos stay folded after baking.
✅ Don’t Overstuff: Too much filling can make it hard to fold the tortillas.

What to Serve with Ground Beef Baked Tacos

Pair these crispy baked tacos with delicious sides:

• Mexican Rice – A flavorful side that complements the tacos.
• Refried Beans – Creamy and rich for extra satisfaction.
• Elote (Mexican Street Corn) – A sweet and spicy side dish.
• Chips & Salsa or Guacamole – For extra dipping fun!

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Final Thoughts

These Ground Beef Baked Tacos are a must-try for taco lovers. They’re quick, crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor, making them a perfect go-to meal for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner, a party appetizer, or a meal prep solution, these baked tacos will never disappoint.

Try this easy and delicious Ground Beef Baked Tacos recipe today, and enjoy a crispy, melty, and flavor-packed taco experience! 🌮🔥