Oven-Baked Cheesy Tacos Recipe – Crispy Loaded Tacos with Beef, Cheese & Fresh Toppings
This Oven-Baked Cheesy Tacos Recipe is the ultimate way to enjoy tacos—crispy, loaded, and baked to perfection. Hard taco shells are stuffed with seasoned beef, beans, and gooey melted cheese, then baked until golden and crunchy. Topped with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, and salsa, these tacos are a crowd-pleasing dinner that’s easy to make and fun to serve. Perfect for family taco night, game day, or casual gatherings, this recipe combines comfort food vibes with bold Mexican-inspired flavors.
Equipment
- Skillet (for cooking fillings)
- Baking dish
- Aluminum foil (for easy cleanup)
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups & spoons
Ingredients
- 8 hard taco shells
- 1 lb ground beef (or chicken/beans for variation)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- ½ cup refried beans (optional)
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- ½ cup shredded lettuce
- ¼ cup sour cream or salsa (for topping)
- Fresh cilantro or jalapeños for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set to 375°F (190°C). Line baking dish with foil.
- Cook filling: In skillet, brown ground beef. Drain excess liquid. Add taco seasoning and cook until fragrant.
- Layer tacos: Place shells upright in baking dish. Add a sprinkle of cheese inside each shell, then spoon in beef filling. Top with more cheese.
- Bake: Place dish in oven for 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and shells are crisp.
- Top & serve: Remove from oven. Add lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, and salsa. Garnish with cilantro or jalapeños. Serve warm.
Notes
- Drain meat well to avoid soggy shells.
- Layer cheese under and over fillings for extra gooeyness.
- Don’t overstuff shells—moderate portions keep them intact.
- Reheat leftovers in oven for crispiness.
- Try variations: buffalo chicken, BBQ pork, or vegetarian bean and corn.