These crispy cheesy ground beef tacos are a treat for all taco lovers! They feature juicy ground beef, melted cheese, and a crunchy shell that brings everything together.
Who doesn’t love a good taco night? I like to pile on my favorite toppings like lettuce and salsa. Just make sure to hold on tight, or it might get messy—deliciously messy, that is! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: For the best flavor and texture, use lean ground beef. You can also substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a healthier option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed!
Taco Seasoning: A packet is convenient, but homemade taco seasoning is simple. Combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt for a fresh flavor. It’s great for controlling the spice level too!
Taco Shells: Hard shell tacos give that lovely crunch, but soft tortillas work if you prefer. Just heat them a bit before stuffing. If you want healthier options, try lettuce wraps instead!
Cheese: Cheddar and Monterey Jack are classic choices, but feel free to mix in pepper jack for heat or use a dairy-free cheese if you’re lactose intolerant. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded.
How Do I Make the Beef Mixture Extra Flavorful?
Cooking the beef correctly enhances the taste and keeps it juicy. Start by browning the meat with chopped onion and garlic over medium heat. Here’s a quick guide:
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Break up the meat as it cooks to ensure even browning.
- Don’t rush; let the beef brown nicely, adding flavor. Drain excess fat to prevent greasy tacos.
- Add taco seasoning and water, stir, and let it simmer until thick. This helps the flavors meld properly.
With these tips, your tacos will be bursting with flavor and a delight to eat!
How to Make Crispy Cheesy Ground Beef Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning)
- 1/2 cup water
- 8 hard taco shells
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or a Mexican blend)
- 1 cup chopped fresh lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- Optional toppings: lime wedges, cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and another 10 minutes to cook, making it a quick dinner option! You’ll be enjoying delicious tacos in just about 25 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef Mixture:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef along with the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are soft and translucent, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any fat from the skillet to keep your tacos from being greasy.
2. Season the Beef:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Pour in the taco seasoning and 1/2 cup of water. Stir everything together well. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until most of the water has evaporated and the meat mixture thickens up a bit. Take it off the heat and set aside.
3. Preheat the Oven:
Turn on your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready for your tacos. While it’s heating up, you can get everything else ready.
4. Assemble the Tacos:
Grab your hard taco shells and place them upright on a baking tray. Spoon a generous amount of the seasoned ground beef mixture into each taco shell. Don’t be shy—fill them up!
5. Load it Up with Toppings:
Now comes the fun part! Layer on the chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, and finely chopped red onion on top of the beef. Then, generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over everything. It’s going to melt beautifully!
6. Bake the Tacos:
Place the tray of loaded tacos in the oven and bake for about 5 minutes, just enough time for the cheese to melt and the taco shells to warm up nicely.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, feel free to garnish your tacos with optional lime wedges and fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor. Serve them immediately and enjoy your crispy cheesy ground beef tacos!
This recipe brings a perfect balance of crispy taco shells, juicy seasoned beef, fresh veggies, and melted cheese. Taco night just got a whole lot better!
FAQ for Crispy Cheesy Ground Beef Tacos
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works great in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as it may cook a little faster than beef. Season it well to enhance the flavor!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you like a kick of heat, add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture. You can also use spicy taco seasoning or incorporate pepper jack cheese instead of regular cheddar for a spicy twist.
Can I Prepare These Tacos Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the beef filling in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the mixture and assemble the tacos just before eating for crispy shells and melted cheese.
How Should I Store Leftover Tacos?
Store leftover taco fillings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, keep the toppings separate from the shells to maintain crispiness. Reheat the filling in the microwave or on the stove when ready to enjoy again!
