Easy Oven-Baked Tacos
Transform your next taco night with Easy Oven-Baked Tacos, a simple yet delicious twist on classic tacos that crisps the shells perfectly while melding the flavors of seasoned beef, creamy refried beans, and gooey melted cheese. This recipe is perfect for a fun, family-friendly meal where everyone can personalize their toppings. With this oven-baked method, you’ll enjoy the irresistible crunch and flavor in every bite.
Servings: 12 tacos
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Equipment Needed: Baking dish, skillet, spoon, mixing bowl
Ingredients for Easy Oven-Baked Tacos
- 12 hard taco shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional Toppings: Lettuce, diced tomato, sour cream, salsa, chopped onions, avocado
Instructions for Easy Oven-Baked Tacos
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure the taco shells become perfectly crispy.
Step 2: Arrange the Taco Shells
- Place the taco shells upright in a baking dish. They should fit snugly but not too tight to avoid cracking.
Step 3: Prepare the Ground Beef
- In a skillet, cook 1 lb of ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the taco seasoning packet and 1/2 cup water, stirring to combine. Let the beef simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Warm the Refried Beans
- Warm the refried beans in a microwave or on the stovetop until soft and spreadable.
Step 5: Fill the Taco Shells
- Spoon a layer of refried beans into each taco shell.
- Follow with a layer of seasoned beef.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 6: Bake
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the shells are golden and crispy.
Step 7: Add Toppings and Serve
- Serve Easy Oven-Baked Tacos hot with toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, salsa, and onions. Enjoy with friends or family as everyone customizes their tacos!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use different types of meat for this recipe?
Yes! Ground chicken, turkey, or even plant-based ground meat work well as substitutes.
2. How do I prevent the taco shells from getting soggy?
Layer the refried beans first in the shell, then add the meat and cheese on top. This helps the shells stay crisp while baking.
3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with a meat alternative or black beans seasoned with taco seasoning for a hearty, vegetarian option.
4. Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them up to the point before baking and store them in the fridge. Bake when ready to serve.
5. What other cheeses work well in this recipe?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend work wonderfully, adding different flavors and melting textures.Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef filling ahead, refrigerate it, and assemble the tacos right before baking.
Can I use soft tortillas instead of hard taco shells?
Yes, but the texture will be softer. Place tortillas in the baking dish and fill with meat and cheese, then bake until warmed through.
Can I freeze baked tacos?
For best results, freeze the filling separately and assemble the tacos fresh before baking.
Notes and Tips
- Spice Level: Adjust the spice by adding chili powder, hot sauce, or using a spicy taco seasoning.
- Custom Toppings: Try pickled jalapeños, black olives, or guacamole to make each taco unique.
- Storage: Store leftover baked tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.
With these Easy Oven-Baked Tacos, taco night will be better than ever! Perfectly crunchy, flavorful, and fun, they’re ideal for gatherings, family dinners, or whenever a craving strikes. Enjoy the irresistible flavor combination and the convenience of this one-pan meal!
Easy Oven-Baked Tacos
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Baking dish (9×13 inch works well)
- Mixing spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Aluminum foil (optional for easy cleanup)
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 small onion diced
- 1 packet taco seasoning or 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 10-12 hard taco shells
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese cheddar or Mexican blend
- Optional Toppings:
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced olives
- Sour cream
- Salsa
- Chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with foil for easier cleanup if desired.
- Step 2: Prepare the Taco Filling
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onions are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain any excess grease, then stir in the taco seasoning and water. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Step 3: Assemble the Tacos
- Place the taco shells standing up in the baking dish. Spoon a few tablespoons of the beef mixture into each shell, filling them evenly.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over the top of the meat in each shell.
- Step 4: Bake the Tacos
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the taco shells are crispy.
- Step 5: Add Toppings and Serve
- Remove the tacos from the oven. Add your favorite toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, olives, sour cream, or salsa.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Video
Notes
- Make It Vegetarian: Use black beans or crumbled tofu instead of ground beef for a vegetarian option.
- Customizable Toppings: Set up a taco bar with a variety of toppings so everyone can customize their own tacos.
- Add a Kick: For a spicy twist, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the beef mixture.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispiness.
