Crispy Baked Ground Beef Tacos: One Easy Weeknight Favorite With Big Flavor
Crunchy, golden Crispy Baked Ground Beef Tacos filled with seasoned beef, melted cheese, and bold Tex-Mex flavor. An easy, oven-baked dinner everyone loves.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (80/20 or 85/15)
1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade)
2 tbsp tomato paste or ¼ cup salsa
¼ cup water
½ small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
10–12 hard taco shells
Cooking spray or oil
Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, sour cream, avocado, cilantro
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish or tray with parchment.
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Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess grease.
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Stir in taco seasoning, tomato paste, water, onion, and garlic. Simmer 3–4 minutes.
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Arrange taco shells upright in the baking dish.
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Fill each shell with beef mixture and top with shredded cheese.
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Lightly spray shells with oil for crispiness.
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Bake 10–12 minutes, until cheese is melted and shells are golden.
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Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
Notes
Use a muffin tin or foil to keep tacos upright. Add beans or veggies for variation. For extra crunch, pre-bake shells 5 minutes before filling.