Description
Craving a quick, satisfying dinner that’s bursting with flavor and crunch? These Oven Baked Cheesy Tacos are the perfect solution for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or family dinners. Packed with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and baked to golden perfection, they offer a crispy shell and gooey filling every time. This easy recipe is ideal if you’re looking for dinner ideas, food ideas for a crowd, or a no-fuss easy recipe that always satisfies. These tacos also make a fun twist for breakfast ideas (hello taco brunch!) or healthy snack swaps with lighter fillings. Baked tacos = less mess, more flavor, and a taco night you’ll want on repeat.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning
1/2 cup water
1/2 small onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup canned diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained
10 crunchy taco shells
2 cups shredded cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish
Sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for serving
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft.
2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks (about 7–9 minutes). Drain excess grease.
3. Stir in taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 4–5 minutes until thickened.
4. Mix in drained diced tomatoes with green chiles and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Stand taco shells upright in a baking dish.
6. Add a layer of shredded cheese to the bottom of each shell.
7. Spoon in the seasoned beef mixture, then top with more cheese.
8. Bake for 10–12 minutes until the cheese is melted and shells are golden.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions.
10. Serve hot with sour cream, salsa, or guacamole.
Notes
Pre-warm the taco shells slightly before assembling to reduce breakage.
For best results, use freshly shredded cheese—it melts better than pre-packaged.
Avoid overstuffing the shells to keep them crisp and prevent tipping in the oven.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 taco
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: easy dinner, oven baked tacos, taco recipe, cheesy tacos, ground beef tacos, quick dinner, food ideas