These Easy Crispy Cheesy Ground Beef Tacos are a fun and tasty meal! Ground beef gets a boost of flavor and is wrapped in crispy shells with melty cheese—yum!
I love how these tacos are quick to make and fun to eat. They always make everyone smile at dinner. Don’t forget to top them with your favorite salsa or guacamole! 🌮😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use 80/20 ground beef for a juicy texture. If you’re looking for healthier options, lean ground turkey or chicken works great too. For a plant-based twist, consider using lentils or textured vegetable protein!
Taco Seasoning: A store-bought packet is easy, but making your own can be healthier. Use cumin, chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder to create your blend. Adjust the spices to match your taste—more heat, less salt, or whatever you prefer!
Cheese: I love using a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for that creamy melt. Feel free to swap with pepper jack for some spice. Vegan cheese is a great swap too for a dairy-free version!
Taco Shells: Hard taco shells give that crunch, but you can also use soft tortillas or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. Just warm them up for a few seconds to make them flexible.
How Can I Make Sure My Taco Filling is Bursting with Flavor?
To really make your taco filling shine, make sure to fully brown the meat. This adds depth and flavor. Also, don’t rush the simmering step! It helps the spices meld together creating a deliciously seasoned beef mixture.
- Cook on medium heat until the beef is browned, about 6-8 minutes.
- After draining grease, add taco seasoning and water, then let it simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Easy 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 (or 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning)
- 1/4 cup water
- 12 hard taco shells (yellow corn)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup chopped fresh lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- Optional: lime wedges, cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20-25 minutes in total, including 10 minutes for prep and 10-15 minutes for cooking! It’s quick and easy, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. Just gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, start cooking the ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir often, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent. This should take about 6-8 minutes. Once done, drain any excess grease from the pan.
2. Season the Mixture:
Next, add the taco seasoning and water to the beef mixture. Stir everything together until the beef is well coated. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens a bit and the flavors blend perfectly. This is the key step to a flavorful filling!
3. Prepare the Taco Shells:
While the beef is simmering, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a baking sheet and arrange your hard taco shells in a row. It’s going to be a scrumptious assembly line!
4. Fill the Taco Shells:
Once the beef mixture is ready, take a generous spoonful and fill each taco shell. Don’t be shy—load them up! Then, sprinkle a delightful mix of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the beef in each shell, making sure to cover them nicely.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and let the tacos bake for about 5-7 minutes. You’re looking for crispy shells and perfectly melted cheese—who doesn’t love that cheesy goodness?
6. Top and Serve:
Once the cheese is melted and the tacos are golden brown, carefully take them out of the oven. Top each taco with fresh chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, and red onion for a crunchy finish. Add some fresh cilantro and lime wedges if you want to take your tacos up a notch!
7. Enjoy Your Tacos!
Serve these delicious and crispy tacos immediately while they’re hot and cheesy. Enjoy every bite of your homemade ground beef tacos with your favorite sides!
FAQ for Easy Crispy Cheesy Ground Beef Tacos
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey and chicken are great alternatives for a leaner option. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and they’ll turn out just as delicious!
How Can I Make Tacos Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils, black beans, or a meat substitute like crumbled tempeh. You can season them the same way for great flavor!
Can I Make These Tacos Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, just reheat the beef and assemble the tacos with fresh toppings!
How Should I Store Leftover Tacos?
If you have leftovers, store the beef mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the taco shells crispy, store them separately. Reheat the beef mixture before filling the shells again!
