Hicham Oven Baked Tacos are a fantastic way to enjoy a classic Mexican favorite with a crispy, cheesy twist. This recipe combines seasoned ground beef, refried beans, and tomato sauce, all stuffed into taco shells and baked to perfection. Perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering, these tacos are sure to please everyone. Let’s dive into this simple and delicious recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 can refried beans
- 1 can tomato sauce
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar or your favorite blend)
- 12 taco shells (hard or soft)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook 2 pounds of ground beef until browned. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the Beans, Tomato Sauce, and Seasoning:
- Add 1 can of refried beans, 1 can of tomato sauce, and 1 packet of taco seasoning to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Stir until well combined and heated through, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Assemble the Tacos
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Fill the Taco Shells:
- Arrange 12 taco shells in a 9×13 inch baking dish, standing them up so they are ready to be filled. If using soft tortillas, you can lightly grease the dish or use a taco holder to keep them upright.
- Add the Filling:
- Spoon the ground beef mixture into each taco shell, filling them generously.
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle grated cheese over the top of the filled taco shells.
Step 3: Bake the Tacos
- Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the taco shells are crispy.
Step 4: Serve
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the tacos from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve the tacos with your favorite toppings such as lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or chopped cilantro.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Ground Beef: You can use ground turkey or chicken as a substitute for a lighter option.
- Cheese: Feel free to use a mix of cheeses such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for added flavor.
- Taco Shells: Both hard and soft taco shells work well for this recipe. If using soft shells, consider baking them lightly before filling to prevent them from getting too soggy.
Variations
Vegetarian Oven Baked Tacos
- Substitute the ground beef with a mixture of black beans, corn, and sautéed bell peppers for a vegetarian version.
Spicy Oven Baked Tacos
- Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
Loaded Oven Baked Tacos
- Add additional toppings such as black olives, green onions, or pickled jalapeños before baking for a loaded version.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these tacos ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the ground beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble and bake the tacos just before serving.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze oven baked tacos? A: It’s best to freeze the ground beef mixture separately. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then assemble and bake the tacos as directed.
Q: What can I serve with oven baked tacos? A: These tacos pair well with Mexican rice, refried beans, a side salad, or chips and salsa.
Q: Can I use homemade taco seasoning? A: Absolutely! Homemade taco seasoning works great and allows you to control the flavors and spice level.
Oven Baked Tacos are a delicious and easy way to enjoy a classic Mexican dish with a crispy, cheesy twist. Perfect for any occasion, these tacos are sure to be a hit with everyone. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this meal is easy to make and always delicious. Enjoy making and sharing these tasty tacos with your family and friends!
