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Oven-Baked Cheesy Tacos

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These Oven-Baked Cheesy Tacos are a crispy, melty, and comforting take on taco night. Filled with seasoned meat and topped with a generous amount of cheese, they’re baked in the oven for an easy, hands-off dinner the whole family will love.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef or ground chicken
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • ½ cup water
  • 12 small corn or flour taco shells
  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté onion until soft, about 3–4 minutes.
  3. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  4. Add ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
  5. Stir in taco seasoning and water. Simmer until thickened, then remove from heat.
  6. Arrange taco shells upright in a baking dish, packed closely so they stay upright.
  7. Evenly fill each shell with the meat mixture.
  8. Top with shredded cheddar and mozzarella (or Monterey Jack) cheese.
  9. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and shells are crispy.
  10. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Add black beans or corn to the filling for extra texture.
  • Use diced jalapeños or spicy seasoning for heat.
  • Swap cheese with pepper jack or Mexican-style blend.
  • Prepare the filling in advance to save time.
  • Reheat leftovers in the oven or air fryer for crispiness.

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