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Oven-Baked Cheesy Beef Tacos

Crispy, golden taco shells filled with seasoned ground beef and melted cheese, baked to perfection on a sheet pan and topped with fresh veggies.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 5 servings (2 tacos each)
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican-American, Tex-Mex
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Beef Filling
  • 1 lb ground beef lean
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 8 oz tomato sauce
Assembly & Toppings
  • 10-12 hard taco shells standard size
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
  • 2 cups iceberg lettuce shredded
  • 2 medium roma tomatoes diced
  • 0.5 small red onion finely diced
  • 0.25 cup fresh cilantro chopped

Equipment

  • Large baking sheet
  • Large Skillet
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray a baking sheet with cooking spray.
  2. In a skillet over medium-high heat, sauté ground beef and yellow onion in olive oil until browned. Drain fat if needed.
  3. Add minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir for 1 minute.
  4. Stir in tomato sauce and simmer on low for 3-5 minutes until thickened.
  5. Arrange taco shells on baking sheet. Place a pinch of cheese in the bottom of each shell.
  6. Fill shells with beef mixture, then top generously with remaining cheese.
  7. Bake for 10-12 minutes until cheese is bubbly and shells are golden.
  8. Top immediately with lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro before serving.

Notes

Serve with a side of sour cream, salsa, and lime wedges for the complete experience. Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispness.