Taco night just got a whole lot easier—and tastier—with oven-baked tacos. This simple recipe combines crispy taco shells, perfectly seasoned filling, and melted cheese all baked together in one dish. It’s a fuss-free way to feed the whole family while keeping the flavors bold and delicious. I discovered this time-saving recipe on I Wuv Cooking, and I’m excited to share it with you!
Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or looking for a new weeknight favorite, oven-baked tacos are guaranteed to impress. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love Oven-Baked Tacos
Oven-baked tacos offer all the classic taco flavors but with an added twist—every taco is perfectly crispy and topped with melted cheese straight out of the oven. Plus, baking them together saves time and makes cleanup a breeze. It’s a win-win!
Oven-Baked Tacos Recipe
This recipe is customizable, so you can use your favorite fillings and toppings to make it your own. Here’s how to create the perfect oven-baked tacos.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternative)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning)
- 1/2 cup water
- 10-12 hard taco shells
- 1 cup refried beans (optional)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Mexican blend, or your choice)
- Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, salsa, guacamole
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). - Cook the Meat:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease, then add the taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 5 minutes or until the mixture thickens. - Prepare the Taco Shells:
Arrange the taco shells upright in a baking dish. If they don’t stand on their own, use rolled-up aluminum foil to support them. - Layer the Fillings:
Spread a layer of refried beans inside each taco shell (if using). Then, spoon the seasoned meat into each shell, filling them evenly. Top with shredded cheese. - Bake:
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the shells are crispy. - Add Toppings:
Remove the tacos from the oven and add your favorite toppings, like diced tomatoes, lettuce, sour cream, and guacamole. - Serve & Enjoy:
Serve immediately for the best crunch and flavor!
Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Tacos
- Cheese First Trick: For extra crispy shells, sprinkle a little cheese at the bottom of each taco shell before adding the filling. The cheese melts and acts as a barrier to keep the shells crunchy.
- Use a Muffin Tin: If you don’t have a suitable baking dish, use a muffin tin to keep your tacos upright during baking.
- Make It Vegetarian: Swap the ground meat for black beans, lentils, or plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version.
Why Oven-Baked Tacos Are a Family Favorite
Oven-baked tacos are not just a dinner—they’re an experience. They’re easy to prepare, fully customizable, and a great way to bring everyone together at the table. Plus, they make taco night even more exciting with their crispy, cheesy, oven-baked goodness.
Give this recipe from I Wuv Cooking a try and watch it become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. Don’t forget to share your taco creations with family and friends—they’re sure to ask for seconds!
Oven-Baked Tacos: A Quick and Delicious Twist on Taco Night
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup refried beans (optional)
- 12 taco shells
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- Toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, salsa, etc.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef (or turkey) over medium heat until browned.
- Drain any excess fat and then add the taco seasoning and water to the skillet. Stir until combined and let simmer for about 5 minutes.
- If using, stir in the refried beans until well mixed.
- Arrange the taco shells upright in a baking dish.
- Spoon the meat mixture evenly into each taco shell.
- Top each filled taco with shredded cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve with your favorite toppings such as lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, and salsa.
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