These Crispy Baked Ground Beef Tacos are a game-changer for taco night! Ground beef is seasoned with bold spices, baked in crunchy taco shells, and topped with melted cheese for a delicious, easy meal that’s both flavorful and fun to eat. Skip the frying and let the oven do the work for a healthier, hassle-free taco experience.
Subscribe to our newsletter to get more easy, delicious taco recipes delivered straight to your inbox!
Why You’ll Love These Crispy Baked Ground Beef Tacos
✔ Easy & Quick – Ready in under 30 minutes for a weeknight win. ✔ Crispy Perfection – The taco shells bake up nice and crispy without the mess of frying. ✔ Customizable – Load with all your favorite taco toppings for the ultimate meal. ✔ Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike will love these tacos!
Ingredients for Crispy Baked Ground Beef Tacos
- For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef – Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- 1 small onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – For a savory depth of flavor.
- 1 packet taco seasoning – Or homemade seasoning blend.
- ¼ cup water – Helps the seasoning meld with the beef.
- Salt and pepper to taste – For seasoning.
- For the Tacos:
- 10-12 taco shells – Choose hard or soft taco shells based on your preference.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – For that melty, cheesy topping.
- 1 cup shredded lettuce – For crunch and freshness.
- 1 medium tomato, diced – Adds a burst of juiciness.
- ½ cup sour cream – For a creamy, cool contrast.
- 1 avocado, sliced – For a creamy, rich topping.
- Fresh cilantro (optional) – Adds a fresh, herby finish.
- Lime wedges – For a tangy, zesty squeeze over the tacos.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet – For browning the ground beef.
- Baking sheet – To bake the taco shells.
- Spoon or spatula – For stirring the beef mixture.
- Grater (if shredding cheese from block) – To shred the cheese.
How to Make Crispy Baked Ground Beef Tacos
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place your taco shells on a baking sheet, standing up, so they don’t touch each other. If they’re soft shells, you may want to crisp them in the oven for 5-7 minutes before filling them.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium-high heat.
Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the taco seasoning and water, and simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the mixture is thick and well-coated.
Step 3: Fill the Taco Shells
Spoon the seasoned beef mixture into each taco shell, filling them generously.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the beef in each shell.
Step 4: Bake the Tacos
Place the filled taco shells in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the taco shells are crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Step 5: Add the Toppings
Once the tacos are done baking, remove them from the oven.
Top each taco with shredded lettuce, diced tomato, sliced avocado, and a dollop of sour cream. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for extra flavor.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
Serve these crispy baked ground beef tacos immediately, with your favorite sides like rice, beans, or chips.
Serving Suggestions
- With Mexican Rice – A flavorful side that complements the tacos perfectly.
- With Refried Beans – A classic side dish that pairs beautifully with tacos.
- With Chips & Salsa – For a crunchy side to accompany your tacos.
Tips for the Best Crispy Baked Ground Beef Tacos
✔ Use Lean Ground Beef – Opt for lean ground beef to make these tacos healthier without sacrificing flavor.
✔ Don’t Overstuff the Shells – Fill the tacos generously, but don’t overstuff them, as they can break when baking.
✔ Customize the Toppings – Add your favorite toppings, such as jalapeños, olives, or shredded cheese, to make these tacos your own.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator: Store any leftover taco filling and toppings in separate airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Reheat the taco filling in a skillet or microwave. If you want to re-crisp the taco shells, pop them back in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
A: Yes! You can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Q2: Can I freeze these tacos?
A: Yes, you can freeze the taco filling (without the toppings) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, then fill and bake the tacos as directed.
Q3: Can I use soft tortillas instead of hard taco shells?
A: Yes! If you prefer soft tacos, you can use soft tortillas and bake them with the beef and cheese inside for a warm, cheesy version.
Conclusion: Crispy, Cheesy, and Delicious!
These Crispy Baked Ground Beef Tacos are an easy, delicious way to enjoy taco night without the hassle of frying. They’re packed with flavor, crispy on the outside, and loaded with all your favorite toppings. Perfect for a family dinner, party, or just a satisfying weeknight meal.
Did you make this recipe? Be sure to leave a review and share your taco creations—we love seeing your photos!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: Mexican
Nutritional Information (per taco)
Calories: 270
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 4g
Enjoy these crispy, cheesy tacos with every bite!
Print
Crispy Baked Ground Beef Tacos
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
These Crispy Baked Ground Beef Tacos are a game-changer for taco night! Ground beef is seasoned with bold spices, baked in crunchy taco shells, and topped with melted cheese for a delicious, easy meal that’s both flavorful and fun to eat. Skip the frying and let the oven do the work for a healthier, hassle-free taco experience.
Subscribe to our newsletter to get more easy, delicious taco recipes delivered straight to your inbox!
Ingredients
-
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef – Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- 1 small onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – For a savory depth of flavor.
- 1 packet taco seasoning – Or homemade seasoning blend.
- ¼ cup water – Helps the seasoning meld with the beef.
- Salt and pepper to taste – For seasoning.
-
For the Tacos:
- 10–12 taco shells – Choose hard or soft taco shells based on your preference.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – For that melty, cheesy topping.
- 1 cup shredded lettuce – For crunch and freshness.
- 1 medium tomato, diced – Adds a burst of juiciness.
- ½ cup sour cream – For a creamy, cool contrast.
- 1 avocado, sliced – For a creamy, rich topping.
- Fresh cilantro (optional) – Adds a fresh, herby finish.
- Lime wedges – For a tangy, zesty squeeze over the tacos.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place your taco shells on a baking sheet, standing up, so they don’t touch each other. If they’re soft shells, you may want to crisp them in the oven for 5-7 minutes before filling them.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium-high heat.
Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the taco seasoning and water, and simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the mixture is thick and well-coated.
Step 3: Fill the Taco Shells
Spoon the seasoned beef mixture into each taco shell, filling them generously.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the beef in each shell.
Step 4: Bake the Tacos
Place the filled taco shells in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the taco shells are crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Step 5: Add the Toppings
Once the tacos are done baking, remove them from the oven.
Top each taco with shredded lettuce, diced tomato, sliced avocado, and a dollop of sour cream. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for extra flavor.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
Serve these crispy baked ground beef tacos immediately, with your favorite sides like rice, beans, or chips.
Notes
✔ Use Lean Ground Beef – Opt for lean ground beef to make these tacos healthier without sacrificing flavor.
✔ Don’t Overstuff the Shells – Fill the tacos generously, but don’t overstuff them, as they can break when baking.
✔ Customize the Toppings – Add your favorite toppings, such as jalapeños, olives, or shredded cheese, to make these tacos your own.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: Mexican
