These Crispy Cheesy Ground Beef Tacos are a tasty treat! They have a crunchy shell filled with juicy, seasoned beef and melted cheese, making them hard to resist.
Who doesn’t love a taco night? I like to pile on the toppings like lettuce and salsa to make each bite even better—it’s a fiesta in every bite! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using 80/20 ground beef for its balance of flavor and juiciness. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. I’ve tried it with plant-based meat, and it works well too if you prefer a vegetarian taco!
Onion: Finely chopped yellow onion adds sweetness and flavor. If you’re out, try shallots or even green onions for a lighter taste.
Taco Seasoning: You can use store-bought taco seasoning for convenience, but I often make my own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne for heat. It’s fresher and you can adjust the spice level!
Taco Shells: I prefer crispy hard taco shells for that satisfying crunch. If you can’t find them, soft tortillas work just as well; just bake them briefly for a few minutes to get them warm and a bit crisp.
Cheese: Cheddar and Monterey Jack are great blends for flavor. Feel free to substitute with pepper jack if you want a spicy kick, or use a dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy!
How Do I Ensure My Taco Filling is Flavorful?
The secret to a delicious filling is all in the seasoning! Make sure to fully cook the ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns. After adding the taco seasoning, let it cook for a couple of extra minutes to let those spices infuse the meat.
- Begin by cooking the onion and garlic until soft for a flavorful base.
- Add the ground beef and stir well. Drain excess grease once browned.
- Mix in taco seasoning and allow it to cook for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
This will ensure every bite of your tacos is packed with flavor!
How to Make Crispy Cheesy Ground Beef Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Tacos:
- 8 small taco shells (hard, crispy shells)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional for extra cheesiness)
- 1 tbsp oil (for cooking beef)
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Sour cream
- Salsa
- Sliced jalapeños
- Chopped cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of preparation time and 10 minutes of cooking time, for a total of around 25 minutes. Quick, easy, and oh-so-tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Start by heating the oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté them together for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. This adds a great flavor base for your tacos!
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it for about 6-8 minutes, using a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. You’ll know it’s done when browned and fully cooked through. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off so your tacos won’t be greasy.
3. Season the Beef:
Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, along with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well and let it cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld nicely. Then, remove the skillet from the heat.
4. Preheat and Prepare the Taco Shells:
While the beef is cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the beef is ready, arrange the taco shells on a baking sheet, ready for filling!
5. Fill the Taco Shells:
Now it’s time for fun! Fill each taco shell with a generous spoonful of the seasoned beef mixture. Don’t be shy—load them up! Then, sprinkle shredded cheddar and, if you like, Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the beef in each shell.
6. Bake for Crispiness:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and let the tacos bake for about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the cheese is melted and the taco shells are nice and crispy.
7. Add Toppings:
Once they’re out of the oven, it’s time to garnish your delicious tacos! Add your favorite toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, salsa, sliced jalapeños, and chopped cilantro for extra flavor and crunch.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your crispy, cheesy tacos immediately while they’re still warm. Gather your friends and family around and enjoy this tasty meal together—everyone will love it!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great substitutes for a leaner option. Just make sure to cook them thoroughly until browned, as the cooking time may vary slightly.
How Do I Store Leftover Tacos?
If you have leftovers, store the filling and taco shells separately in airtight containers. The filling can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days, while the taco shells can last at room temperature. Reheat the filling in the microwave or on the stove, and enjoy fresh tacos!
Can I Make the Beef Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef filling in advance! Cook it up to 2 days ahead and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat it and assemble your tacos with fresh shells and toppings.
What Can I Use for a Dairy-Free Cheese Option?
There are plenty of great dairy-free cheese alternatives available! Look for plant-based shredded cheese that melts well, or try using nutritional yeast sprinkled on top for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Just be sure to check the packaging for melting instructions.
