Baked Ground Beef Tacos

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef

1 cup tomato puree note 1

2 tablespoons tomato paste

2 teaspoons ground cumin

2 teaspoons dried oregano

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon paprika powder

1.5 cups grated cheese cheddar, gouda or similar (note 2)

12 taco shells

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400F.

Heat a pan over medium to high heat add the ground beef and cook until the beef is not pink anymore, keep on breaking it up while cooking.

Once the ground beef is cooked add all the spices and stir.

Add the tomato paste, mix it in and keep cooking for 1 to 2 minutes (this will remove bitterness from the tomato paste)

Pour the tomato sauce into the pan, stir again and cook for 1 – 2 minutes.

Put all the taco shells in your casserole from and fill them with the ground beef mixture – 1 to 2 tablespoons each.

Top with the grated cheese and bake for around 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted.

Serve immediately with toppings of your choice (sour cream, salsa, avocados, cilantro, tomatoes, lettuce, beans, corn…)

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 2 tacos

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option.

The cooking process and flavors will still work well with poultry.

What type of cheese works best for these tacos?

Cheddar, gouda, or similar melty cheeses work well.

You can choose based on your personal preference for flavor.

Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of these cheeses can also be delicious.

How can I make this recipe spicier or milder to suit my taste?

Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the spiciness. Increase it for more heat or reduce it if you prefer a milder flavor.

Additionally, you can add or omit hot sauce or chili flakes based on your preference.

Are there any alternative toppings I can use besides the ones listed?

Absolutely! Taco toppings are versatile.

You can add sliced olives, pickled jalapeños, diced red onions, or even a squeeze of lime juice for extra flavor.

Can I prepare the ground beef mixture in advance and assemble the tacos later?

Yes, you can prepare the seasoned ground beef mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for a day or two.

When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it and assemble the tacos with cheese before baking.

Can I use soft tortillas instead of taco shells for this recipe?

Yes, you can use soft tortillas if you prefer them over taco shells.

You can fill the tortillas with the ground beef mixture and cheese, roll them up, place them in a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake as directed.

What can I do if my taco shells become too soggy during baking?

To prevent taco shells from becoming too soggy, you can preheat them in the oven for a few minutes before filling them with the beef mixture and cheese.

This helps create a barrier between the filling and the shell, keeping it crisper.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

To make this dish healthier, consider using lean ground beef or turkey and reducing the cheese quantity.

You can also load up on healthier toppings like fresh vegetables and use whole-grain taco shells for added fiber.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian or vegan version by substituting the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives and using dairy-free cheese.

Ensure the other ingredients are also vegan-friendly, and adjust seasoning to taste.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover baked tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

They can typically be kept for 2-3 days.

Reheat them in the oven or microwave when ready to eat.

Keep any toppings separate to prevent them from becoming soggy.