Name: Crispy Baked Ground Beef Tacos
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 26 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef (90%); 1 packet taco seasoning; ¾ cup red enchilada sauce; 2 ½ cups Oaxaca cheese (or Mexican cheese or Monterey Jack); 10 corn tortillas; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Jump to Recipe

Crispy Baked Ground Beef Tacos are a delicious twist on traditional tacos, combining seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and a perfectly crispy corn tortilla shell. This recipe is ideal for a quick and satisfying dinner, and it’s a great way to enjoy all the flavors of tacos with minimal frying. The crispy edges of the corn tortillas, combined with the savory beef and gooey cheese, create a taco experience that’s both comforting and flavorful. Perfect for taco night or meal prep, these baked tacos will surely become a family favorite!

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You don’t need to fry the tacos in oil, which makes it a healthier and less messy option than traditional fried tacos. Instead, the tortillas are lightly brushed with olive oil and baked until golden and crispy. The filling of seasoned ground beef, red enchilada sauce, and cheese is packed with flavor, and the dish can be customized with various toppings. Whether you enjoy tacos with fresh guacamole, salsa, or a drizzle of queso, these baked tacos provide a base that’s as versatile as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Crispy Baked Ground Beef Tacos are the perfect balance of crunchy and savory. With minimal prep, you get a flavorful taco filling wrapped in crispy, cheesy tortillas that are baked to perfection. The best part? You can customize the toppings to your liking, making this dish a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. The use of red enchilada sauce in the filling adds a rich, zesty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the seasoned beef. Additionally, by baking the tacos instead of frying them, you cut down on the grease and cleanup, making it a quick and easy dinner option. You can also make these tacos ahead of time, store them, and reheat them when needed, making them perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients

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

Variations

Spicy Tacos: Add diced jalapeños or chili flakes to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian Tacos: Substitute ground beef with black beans or a mix of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini for a vegetarian-friendly option.
Cheese Variations: Use a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese for a different flavor profile, or go for a spicier cheese like pepper jack.
Green Sauce Option: Swap the red enchilada sauce with green enchilada sauce for a tangy twist.
Add Avocado: For extra creaminess, add sliced avocado or a dollop of guacamole inside the taco before serving.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart as it browns. Once the beef is cooked through, stir in the taco seasoning and red enchilada sauce. Bring to a simmer, then remove from heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Tortillas

Wrap the tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave them for 30-60 seconds to make them pliable.

Step 4: 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 half of the tortilla, followed by about ¼ cup of the beef mixture. Add 2 more tablespoons of cheese on top of the beef, then fold the tortilla over the filling. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas.

Step 5: Bake the Tacos

Arrange the 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 has melted.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow the tacos to cool for about 3 minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite toppings!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Warm Tortillas: Be sure to warm the tortillas before folding. If they crack, you can secure them with toothpicks to hold the filling inside.
Non-Stick Pan: For best results, use a non-stick or ceramic sheet pan to avoid sticking. If you use aluminum foil, the tortillas might stick.
Customize the Filling: Feel free to add extra ingredients like diced onions, bell peppers, or beans to the beef mixture to suit your preferences.
Crispy Texture: For extra crispy tacos, flip them halfway through the baking process.

How to Serve

Serve these crispy baked beef tacos with your favorite toppings like guacamole, pico de gallo, salsa, or sour cream. You can also pair them with sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple salad to round out the meal. These tacos are perfect for family dinner, taco night, or even a casual gathering with friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, be sure to add a little extra cheese on top before warming them in the oven to retain the crispy texture.

Freezing

To freeze, place the assembled tacos on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to bake, heat the oven to 450°F (230°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and heated through.

Reheating

To reheat, place the tacos in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until crispy. You can also reheat them in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-6 minutes.

FAQs

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

Yes, flour tortillas can be used. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as they may need a slightly shorter bake time.

2. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef and works well in this recipe.

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

Yes, you can prepare the taco filling ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When ready to assemble, just heat the filling before using it.

4. Can I freeze these tacos?

Yes, these tacos freeze well. After assembling, freeze them before baking, and bake them straight from the freezer when you’re ready to eat.

5. How can I make these tacos spicier?

Add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture, or top the tacos with hot salsa or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.

6. Can I bake these on a foil-lined pan?

It’s best to use a non-stick or ceramic pan to avoid sticking, but if you only have aluminum foil, consider using parchment paper underneath the tortillas.

7. How can I make the tortillas more pliable?

Microwaving the tortillas wrapped in a damp paper towel for 30-60 seconds will make them pliable and easy to fold.

8. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for different flavors.

9. How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

Ensure your tortillas are warm and pliable before folding them. If the filling still leaks, secure the edges with toothpicks before baking.

10. Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the taco filling ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble and bake the tacos just before serving to maintain their crispiness.

Conclusion

Crispy Baked Ground Beef Tacos are an easy and flavorful dinner option that is sure to please the entire family. With their golden, crispy shells and savory beef filling, these tacos are perfect for taco night or any casual meal. You can customize the recipe with various toppings and fillings to suit your taste, making it a versatile dish. Whether you’re making them fresh or storing leftovers for later, these tacos are a convenient and delicious choice for any occasion.