Oven Baked Beef Tacos
If you’re looking for a fun and flavorful dinner that the whole family will love, look no further than these Oven Baked Beef Tacos. With seasoned beef, melty cheese, and a variety of toppings, these tacos are not only easy to make but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, they come together in no time and are sure to become a staple in your household.
Why Oven Baked Beef Tacos is Worth Your Time
Oven Baked Beef Tacos offer a unique twist on traditional taco night. Instead of the usual hand-held versions, baking the tacos in the oven allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring the cheese gets wonderfully gooey. These tacos are easy to customize, so everyone can build their ideal creation. Plus, by using the oven, you can prepare multiple tacos at once, making feeding a crowd a breeze. Whether you’re gearing up for Taco Tuesday or just in need of a delicious meal, these tacos are sure to impress!
What Goes Into Oven Baked Beef Tacos
To create these delicious Oven Baked Beef Tacos, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 one-ounce envelope taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning, see notes below)
- ¾ cup water
- 1 15.5-ounce can chili beans (drained, optional for extra heartiness)
- 1 10-count package Stand ‘n Stuff Taco Shells (Old El Paso brand works great)
- 2 cups Mexican blend shredded cheese
- Shredded lettuce
- Chopped tomatoes
- Guacamole, salsa, and sour cream (as desired)
Setup & Equipment
Before you begin, gather the following equipment to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable:
- Large skillet – for browning the ground beef
- Measuring cups – for accurate ingredient portions
- 10×13 inch baking dish – for assembling and baking the tacos
- Spatula – for mixing and serving
- Oven mitts – safety first!
Oven Baked Beef Tacos Made Stepwise
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your tacos bake evenly and the cheese melts beautifully.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Season the Beef
Once the beef is browned, sprinkle the taco seasoning over the meat. Pour in the water and stir to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 3-4 minutes, so the flavors can meld together. If using, add in the drained chili beans and mix well.
Step 4: Assemble the Tacos
In your baking dish, arrange the Stand ‘n Stuff Taco Shells. Spoon the beef mixture evenly into each shell, filling them generously.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded Mexican blend cheese over the top of all the tacos, ensuring each one is well-covered for that melty goodness.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the tacos from the oven, let them cool for a minute, and then serve with your choice of toppings like shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, guacamole, salsa, and sour cream. Enjoy your delicious Oven Baked Beef Tacos!
Seasonal Twists
To keep things exciting, why not try these seasonal twists on your Oven Baked Beef Tacos?
- Fall Fiesta: Add roasted butternut squash or pumpkin puree to the beef mixture for a seasonal touch.
- Summer Fresh: Mix in fresh corn and diced bell peppers for a refreshing summer vibe.
- Winter Warmth: Incorporate black beans and diced jalapeños for a spicy kick during the colder months.
- Spring Greens: Top with fresh cilantro and avocado for a vibrant springtime flavor.
Little Things that Matter
When making your Oven Baked Beef Tacos, consider these little tips that make a big difference:
- Always taste your beef mixture before assembling. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- For extra crunch, bake the taco shells for a few minutes before adding the filling.
- Mix and match your toppings to please everyone at the table.
- Enjoy the leftovers! These tacos reheat beautifully for lunch the next day.
Shelf Life & Storage
For optimal taste and freshness, here’s how to store your Oven Baked Beef Tacos:
- Leftover assembled tacos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For best results, store the filling and taco shells separately to maintain crunchiness.
- You can freeze the beef mixture for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before using.
- Reheat tacos in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to keep them crispy.
Ask the Chef
Can I use a different type of meat for these tacos?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat used.
Is there a way to make these tacos spicier?
Yes! You can add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. Additionally, using spicy taco seasoning will amp up the heat!
Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
Certainly! You can prepare the beef mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Assemble the tacos just before baking to keep the shells crispy.
What can I serve with Oven Baked Beef Tacos?
These tacos pair wonderfully with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh corn salad. Don’t forget some tortilla chips and your favorite salsa for dipping!
Ready to Cook?
Now that you have your ingredients prepped and your oven preheated, it’s time to dive into the delicious world of Oven Baked Beef Tacos. With their cheesy goodness and endless topping possibilities, they’re sure to become a favorite in your home. So gather your loved ones, enjoy the cooking process, and savor every bite of these mouthwatering tacos. Happy cooking!
Oven Baked Beef Tacos
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef and cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef, pour in the water, and stir to combine. Simmer for 3-4 minutes. If using, add drained chili beans and mix well.
- Arrange the Stand 'n Stuff Taco Shells in a baking dish and spoon the beef mixture into each shell.
- Sprinkle shredded Mexican blend cheese over the tacos.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Remove from oven, let cool for a minute, then serve with toppings.
Notes
- Taste the beef mixture before assembling and adjust seasoning as needed.
- For extra crunch, bake taco shells for a few minutes before adding filling.
- Mix and match toppings to please everyone!
- Leftovers reheat beautifully for lunch the next day.
