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Oven-Baked Cheesy Tacos

Oven-Baked Cheesy Tacos

Oven-Baked Cheesy Tacos combine crispy baked shells with gooey melted cheese and seasoned fillings for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal. This easy-to-make recipe uses simple ingredients to deliver a flavorful, fun, and customizable dinner that’s perfect for family, gatherings, or casual meals.

Ingredients

Taco Shells and Oils

  • Taco shells or small flour tortillas (quantity as needed)
  • Olive oil or cooking spray (for crisping shells)

Cheese

  • Shredded cheese blend: cheddar and Monterey Jack (1 to 2 cups)

Meat and Seasoning

  • Ground beef or turkey (1 lb)
  • Taco seasoning (1 packet or about 2 tbsp)
  • Diced onions (1 small onion)
  • Minced garlic (2 cloves)

Fresh Ingredients and Add-ons

  • Chopped tomatoes or salsa (1 cup)
  • Optional: black beans or corn kernels (1/2 cup each)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: Heat a skillet with a little oil and cook the diced onions and garlic until fragrant. Add ground beef or turkey, breaking it up as it cooks. Sprinkle in taco seasoning and stir until meat is fully cooked and coated with spices. For variation, mix in black beans or corn at this stage.
  2. Assemble the Tacos: Lightly spray or brush taco shells with olive oil for crispness. Spoon the seasoned meat mixture evenly into each shell. Top generously with shredded cheese to ensure gooey, melted perfection.
  3. Bake to Perfection: Arrange filled tacos upright on a preheated baking tray. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, until cheese is melted, bubbly, and shells are golden and crisp.
  4. Add Fresh Toppings: Remove from oven and garnish tacos with fresh toppings such as chopped tomatoes, cilantro, sour cream, or avocado for added flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Don’t overload the taco shells to avoid soggy shells and for easier handling.
  • Use a shredded cheese blend, combining sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack, for optimal flavor and meltiness.
  • Preheat the baking tray before placing tacos on it to keep shells crispy.
  • Freeze leftover cooked filling in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
  • If preparing ahead, loosely cover tacos with foil before baking to maintain freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: oven-baked tacos, cheesy tacos, baked cheesy tacos, easy taco recipe, crowd-pleasing tacos, crispy taco shells