Name: Crispy Ground Beef Tacos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; 1 packet taco seasoning; ½ cup red enchilada sauce; 10 corn tortillas; 1 cup shredded Oaxaca cheese (or Monterey Jack, Cheddar, or Mexican blend); 1 tablespoon olive oil; Guacamole; Pico de gallo; Salsa; Sour cream

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These Crispy Ground Beef Tacos are cheesy, flavorful, and irresistibly crunchy, making them perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Packed with seasoned beef, melted cheese, and crispy corn tortillas, they come together in just 35 minutes and can be customized with all your favorite toppings!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy & Cheesy: The combination of melted cheese and crispy tortillas is pure perfection.
Quick & Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, making it a great weeknight dinner.
Customizable: Load up with your favorite toppings like guacamole, salsa, or sour cream.
Oven-Baked: No need for deep-frying—these tacos bake up crispy in the oven!

Ingredients

1 pound lean ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning
½ cup red enchilada sauce
10 corn tortillas
1 cup shredded Oaxaca cheese (or Monterey Jack, Cheddar, or Mexican blend)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional toppings:
- Guacamole
- Pico de gallo
- Salsa
- Sour cream

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Beef

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef.
Cook, breaking it apart, until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
Stir in taco seasoning and enchilada sauce.
Simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.

2. Prepare the Tortillas

Wrap corn tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30-60 seconds until pliable.
Lightly brush one side of each tortilla with olive oil.

3. Assemble the Tacos

Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C).
Place tortillas oiled side down on a nonstick or ceramic baking sheet.
Sprinkle cheese on half of each tortilla, then spoon the beef mixture on top.
Fold each tortilla in half and gently press down.

4. Bake the Tacos

Bake for 16 minutes, flipping halfway, until the tacos are golden brown and crispy.

5. Serve & Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
Serve with guacamole, pico de gallo, salsa, or sour cream on the side.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving

Variations

Extra Crispy Tacos: Place a baking rack on the sheet to allow airflow around the tacos.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or use a spicier taco seasoning.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the beef for black beans, refried beans, or soy crumbles.
Different Cheese Options: Try pepper jack, cotija, or queso fresco for a unique twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to keep them crispy.
- Air Fryer: Heat at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat for 30 seconds, but they may lose crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?

Yes! Flour tortillas will also crisp up, though they may need a shorter bake time.

2. Can I make these tacos ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble them in advance, store in the fridge, and bake when ready to serve.

3. What’s the best way to get crispy tacos?

Bake directly on a baking sheet—avoid foil or parchment paper for best crispiness.

4. Can I pan-fry these instead of baking?

Yes! Cook in a hot skillet with a little oil, flipping once, until golden brown.

5. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free corn tortillas and check that your taco seasoning is gluten-free.

6. What’s the best cheese for tacos?

Oaxaca, Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a Mexican blend all work well.

7. Can I freeze leftover tacos?

Yes! Freeze unbaked tacos, then bake straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.

8. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works as a leaner alternative to beef.

9. What sides go well with these tacos?

Pair with Mexican rice, refried beans, elote (Mexican street corn), or a fresh salad.

10. How do I prevent tortillas from cracking?

Warming them in the microwave or on a skillet makes them more flexible for folding.

Conclusion

These Crispy Ground Beef Tacos are quick, cheesy, and bursting with flavor—perfect for Taco Tuesday or any night of the week! With crunchy tortillas, seasoned beef, and melty cheese, they’re an absolute must-try. Serve with your favorite toppings and sides, and enjoy restaurant-quality tacos at home!