Introduction
Oven Baked Tacos are a fun and easy way to enjoy a classic favorite. They bring together all the flavors of traditional tacos while adding a delightful twist. With crispy shells and cheesy goodness, these tacos are sure to please everyone at the table!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a great choice for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. It’s simple to prepare and can feed a crowd without a lot of fuss. Plus, it’s a fun dish that everyone can customize with their favorite toppings. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, Oven Baked Tacos will be a hit!
How to Make Oven Baked Tacos
Making Oven Baked Tacos is straightforward and quick. Here’s what you need:
Ingredients:
- 11-12 hard taco shells
- 1 ½ lbs. ground beef
- 1 can of undrained Rotel tomatoes
- ½ medium onion, chopped
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 2 cups taco blend cheese
- Toppings of choice
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
- Sauté the meat and onions over medium-high heat on the stove until the meat is cooked through and the onions have softened.
- Add the taco seasoning and undrained Rotel to the skillet, and cook over medium heat until all liquid is absorbed.
- Line the taco shells standing upright in a 9×13 baking dish.
- Place a layer of cheese on the bottom of each taco shell.
- Top the cheese with a layer of the prepared taco meat.
- Add a final layer of cheese to the top of each taco.
- Bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove and garnish with your toppings of choice, then serve.
How to Serve Oven Baked Tacos
Serve Oven Baked Tacos hot out of the oven. Let everyone build their own tacos with their favorite toppings. Some popular options are sour cream, lettuce, salsa, and jalapeños. This way, each person can customize their taco just the way they like it!
How to Store Oven Baked Tacos
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350 degrees until heated through. Keep in mind that the shells may soften a bit, but they’ll still taste great!
Tips to Make Oven Baked Tacos
- Make sure to drain excess fat from the cooked beef for a healthier option.
- Use a mix of different cheeses for added flavor.
- Feel free to add beans or vegetables to the meat mixture for extra nutrition.
Variation
You can easily make these tacos vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with lentils or black beans. Just season them the same way for a delicious and hearty meal!
FAQs
1. Can I use soft taco shells instead of hard ones?
Yes, you can! Just be aware that they might not hold their shape as well once baked.
2. Can I freeze Oven Baked Tacos?
Yes! You can freeze the assembled tacos before baking. Just wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer. When ready, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
3. What toppings can I use for my tacos?
You can use a variety of toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado, cilantro, or even pickled onions. The possibilities are endless!