Oven-Baked Cheesy Tacos
300kcal
Ingredients
For the Meat Filling
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken) hearty protein and base flavor
- 1 tbsp olive oil helps sauté aromatics and adds healthy fats
- 1 small onion, diced brings sweetness and depth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced boosts flavor and supports immunity
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade mix) quick, bold seasoning
- ½ cup tomato sauce or salsa adds moisture and tang
- Salt & pepper, to taste balances and enhances flavors
For the Assembly
- 10 small taco shells (flour or corn, slightly warmed) the crispy vessel for fillings
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend) melty, savory topping
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded fresh crunch and balance
- ½ cup diced tomatoes juicy brightness
- ½ cup red onion, diced crisp bite and color
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped herbal lift and authenticity
Optional Toppings
- Sour cream customize heat and creaminess
- Jalapeños customize heat and creaminess
- Guacamole customize heat and creaminess
- Hot sauce customize heat and creaminess
Method
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with foil.
- In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant and the onion is translucent (about 3–4 minutes).
- Add 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken) to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it up and cook until browned and no longer pink (about 6–8 minutes).
- Stir in 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade mix), ½ cup tomato sauce or salsa, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld and the mixture thicken slightly.
Assembly
- Fill each warmed taco shell with a generous spoonful of the meat mixture, placing the filled tacos standing side by side in the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the tops of the tacos with 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend), covering each taco evenly.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and the edges of the shells are lightly crispy and golden.
- Remove from the oven and immediately top with 1 cup shredded lettuce, ½ cup diced tomatoes, ½ cup red onion, and ¼ cup fresh cilantro. Add sour cream, guacamole, jalapeños, or hot sauce as desired.
Nutrition
Serving1gCalories300kcalCarbohydrates30gProtein18gFat14gSaturated Fat7gSodium600mgFiber2gSugar2g
Notes
Tip: Don’t over-sauce: If your meat mixture is too loose, drain a little liquid or simmer longer so shells don’t get soggy. Warm shells briefly to make them pliable and help them crisp better when baked.