Crispy Ground Beef Tacos
Crispy ground beef tacos are a delightful twist on traditional tacos that everyone loves. These tasty bites feature perfectly seasoned ground beef encased in crispy tortillas. The combination of savory beef and melted cheese makes them a family favorite for any occasion.
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Why You’ll Love This Crispy Ground Beef Taco
These crispy ground beef tacos are not just delicious; they are also quick and easy to prepare. They bring comfort food to a new level, satisfying your cravings with every bite. The perfect blend of spices and the crunchy texture of the tortillas make these tacos a must-try. They are ideal for a casual dinner or a festive gathering with friends and family.
How to Make Crispy Ground Beef Tacos
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lean ground beef (90%)
- 1 packet of taco seasoning
- 3/4 cup red enchilada sauce
- 2 1/2 cups Oaxaca cheese or Mexican cheese or Monterey Jack
- 10 corn tortillas
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and start browning it, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Once the beef is browned, stir in the taco seasoning and red enchilada sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then remove it from heat.
- Wrap the tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30–60 seconds until they become pliable.
- Brush one side of each tortilla with olive oil. Place the tortilla on a baking sheet, oiled side down.
- Add 2 tablespoons of cheese to one half of the tortilla. Top it with 1/4 cup of the beef mixture, then add 2 more tablespoons of cheese on top.
- Fold the tortilla over the filling to create a taco.
- Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas, arranging the tacos in a single layer on your baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 16 minutes, or until the tortillas are crispy and the cheese has melted.
- Let the tacos cool for 3 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Crispy Ground Beef Tacos
Serving crispy ground beef tacos is simple and fun. Pair them with your favorite toppings like diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, fresh cilantro, or avocado. You can also serve them with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole on the side for added flavor.
How to Store Crispy Ground Beef Tacos
If you have leftover crispy ground beef tacos, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best consumed within 2 days. To reheat, place them in an oven or toaster oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving them, as that will make the tortillas soggy.
Tips to Make Crispy Ground Beef Tacos Perfect
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease in the filling.
- Make sure to preheat the oven properly to achieve the best crispy texture.
- Don’t skip the step of microwaving the tortillas. This makes them easier to fold without breaking.
- For extra crunch, consider frying the tacos in a skillet after baking.
Flavor Variations
Feel free to get creative with your crispy ground beef tacos! Here are a few flavor variations you can try:
- Spicy Tacos: Add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with a combination of black beans and corn for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
- Cheesy Taco: Add a layer of your favorite cheese to the bottom of the baking sheet before placing the tacos on top for a cheesy base.
Pro Tips for Success
- Quality Ingredients: Use quality ground beef and fresh toppings for the best flavor.
- Even Cooking: Make sure to arrange the tacos in a single layer without overlapping to ensure even cooking.
- Experiment with Cheeses: While Oaxaca cheese is recommended, feel free to use cheese blends that you love.
FAQs About Crispy Ground Beef Tacos
1. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
Yes, you can use flour tortillas, but corn tortillas typically give a better crispy texture. If using flour, monitor the baking time as they may cook faster.
2. How can I make these tacos gluten-free?
To make gluten-free crispy ground beef tacos, simply use corn tortillas that are labeled gluten-free and ensure that the taco seasoning does not contain gluten.
3. What can I serve with crispy ground beef tacos?
These tacos pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple green salad. They also go well with a bean dip or chips and salsa for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Crispy ground beef tacos are an enjoyable and satisfying dish that everyone will love. They are straightforward to make and can be customized to fit your taste. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, these tacos are perfect for any day of the week. Try out this recipe, and you may find that it becomes a regular rotation in your weekly menu.
Crispy Ground Beef Tacos
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and start browning it, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Once the beef is browned, stir in the taco seasoning and red enchilada sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then remove it from heat.
- Wrap the tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30–60 seconds until they become pliable.
- Brush one side of each tortilla with olive oil. Place the tortilla on a baking sheet, oiled side down.
- Add 2 tablespoons of cheese to one half of the tortilla. Top it with 1/4 cup of the beef mixture, then add 2 more tablespoons of cheese on top.
- Fold the tortilla over the filling to create a taco.
- Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas, arranging the tacos in a single layer on your baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 16 minutes, or until the tortillas are crispy and the cheese has melted.
- Let the tacos cool for 3 minutes before serving.
