These Oven Baked Tacos are a delicious twist on traditional tacos, combining seasoned beef, creamy refried beans, and melted cheese in crispy shells. By baking the tacos in the oven, the cheese becomes perfectly gooey, and the shells stay crunchy and satisfying. This dish is easy to prepare and ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Serve these tacos with fresh toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, and guacamole to add a burst of flavor and color.
This recipe is both quick and versatile, allowing you to customize with different toppings or even add extra ingredients to the filling, like onions or jalapeños. Baking the tacos also makes it easy to serve multiple people at once, making it a great option for family meals or game day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
• Simple and Quick: Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients and quick baking time.
• Perfectly Melted Cheese: Baking the tacos melts the cheese beautifully and keeps everything warm.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for serving groups and customizable with various toppings.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 can refried beans
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1/2 can tomato sauce
• Taco shells
• Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
• In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the pan.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Mixture
• Mix in the refried beans, taco seasoning, and half a can of tomato sauce with the browned beef. Stir until the ingredients are thoroughly combined and heated through, creating a flavorful taco filling.
Step 3: Prep the Taco Shells
• Scoop the beef mixture generously into each taco shell. Arrange the filled taco shells standing up in a casserole dish, making sure they are snug and don’t tip over.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake
• Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese on top of each taco. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the tacos for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve with Toppings
• Remove the tacos from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve with your favorite toppings, such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and guacamole.
Storage Options:
• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the shells crispy.
• Freezer: Freeze the beef mixture for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat and assemble the tacos fresh before baking.
Tips:
• Prevent Soggy Shells: To keep the taco shells extra crunchy, bake them in the oven for a few minutes before adding the beef mixture.
• Customize the Filling: Add diced onions, jalapeños, or black beans to the beef mixture for added flavor and texture.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair with rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
These Oven Baked Tacos are a delicious and convenient option for taco night, with gooey cheese and crispy shells that make each bite satisfying. Serve them with plenty of fresh toppings, and enjoy!
