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Oven Baked Tacos

Oven Baked Tacos
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Oven Baked Tacos combine crispy baked shells with a zesty, savory filling for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this adaptable recipe uses simple ingredients and minimal prep to deliver bold tastes and delightful textures. With customizable protein options and fresh toppings, it’s a family-friendly dinner that pleases all palates while ensuring easy cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Filling

  • 1 lb lean ground beef, chicken, turkey, or plant-based protein
  • 2 tbsp taco seasoning (chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika)
  • 2 tbsp water (to simmer)

Shells and Oil

  • 8–10 taco shells or soft flour tortillas (or corn tortillas for gluten-free)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing shells)

Cheese and Toppings

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1/2 cup diced onions
  • Salsa or hot sauce, to taste
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook your ground meat or chosen protein until browned. Stir in the taco seasoning and 2 tablespoons of water, then simmer until the mixture thickens and is evenly coated.
  2. Warm the Taco Shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush the taco shells or tortillas with olive oil to help achieve crispy, golden edges during baking.
  3. Assemble the Tacos: Fill each shell or tortilla with a generous portion of the seasoned filling. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top to create a rich, melty layer.
  4. Bake Until Perfect: Arrange the filled tacos upright on a baking sheet or taco holder. Bake them for 10-15 minutes, until the shells turn crispy and the cheese bubbles and melts.
  5. Add Fresh Toppings: Remove the tacos from the oven and garnish with diced tomatoes, lettuce, onions, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. Finish with salsa or hot sauce to taste for extra zing.

Notes

  • Use a taco holder or arrange tacos snugly upright on a baking sheet to keep their shape while baking.
  • Don’t overfill tacos to prevent soggy shells or filling leaks; moderate portions enable crispiness.
  • Brush shells evenly with olive oil for a golden, crunchy texture without greasiness.
  • Ensure the oven is fully preheated to 375°F (190°C) for best baking results.
  • Add fresh vegetables and creamy toppings after baking to maintain their texture and flavors.
  • Assemble and freeze unbaked tacos individually to keep them from sticking and bake directly from frozen when needed.
  • Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to restore crispiness rather than using a microwave.

Nutrition

Keywords: oven baked tacos, baked tacos, quick dinner, easy tacos, gluten free tacos, family dinner, Mexican recipe, crispy tacos, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://mealsbysarah.com/oven-baked-tacos-2/