Baked Tacos Recipe – Crispy, Cheesy & Super Easy to Make

This baked tacos recipe is perfect for anyone who loves crispy, cheesy, and flavor-packed meals. These tacos come together quickly, use simple everyday ingredients, and deliver restaurant-style taste right at home. The shells turn beautifully crunchy in the oven while the seasoned beef and melted cheese create an irresistible filling.

Whether you’re cooking for busy weeknights, hosting a party, or preparing a family-style dinner, this easy baked tacos recipe guarantees a delicious and crowd-pleasing meal every single time. Let’s jump straight into the easy recipe!

Ingredients

For the Filling

• 2 lb lean ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken)
• 3 Tbsp taco seasoning
• 6 oz tomato sauce
• 20 hard corn taco shells
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)

For Serving (Optional Toppings)

• Shredded lettuce
• Diced tomatoes
• Salsa
• Sour cream

Substitutions & Dietary Options

• Ground turkey or chicken lighter, lower-fat version
• Black beans or refried beans vegetarian or vegan protein
• Gluten-free taco shells for gluten-free diets
• Vegan cheese for dairy-free needs
• Greek yogurt healthier alternative to sour cream

Tools You Need

• 9×13 inch baking dish or baking sheet
• Large skillet
• Oven preheated to 375°F (190°C)

How to Make Baked Tacos Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the oven
 Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook the meat
 Heat a skillet over medium heat, add the ground meat, and cook until no pink remains.
 Drain any excess fat.

3. Season the filling
 Add taco seasoning and tomato sauce.
 Stir well and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.

4. Arrange the taco shells
 Place the shells upright in a baking dish.

5. Add the filling
 Spoon the cooked meat into each shell.
 Top generously with shredded cheese.

6. Bake
 Bake for 10–15 minutes until the shells are crispy and the cheese is fully melted.

7. Serve
 Finish with your favorite toppings: lettuce, tomatoes, salsa, and sour cream.
 Serve immediately for the best crunch!

Troubleshooting

Tacos turned soggy?

• Bake for a few extra minutes
• Or place under the broiler for 1–2 minutes

Filling too dry?

• Add 1–2 tablespoons of tomato sauce or water

Taco shells breaking?

• Don’t overfill
• Keep shells close together in the baking dish for support

Storage & Meal Prep

Meat filling:

• Refrigerate: 2–3 days
• Freeze: up to 3 months

Assembled baked tacos:

• Refrigerate for up to 2 days
• Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes

Tip: For best texture, always bake the shells fresh.

Nutrition (Approx. per Taco)

• Calories: ~220
• Protein: ~9 g
• Carbs: ~15 g
• Fat: ~12 g

(Nutritional values will vary depending on toppings and shell brand.)

FAQs

Can I use soft tortillas?

Yes, but they won’t get as crispy. Expect a softer texture.

Can I freeze the meat filling?

Absolutely. Freeze for up to 3 months.

How do I make this vegetarian?

Use black beans, refried beans, or plant-based “meat,” plus vegan cheese.

Why are my tacos soggy?

The filling may be too wet, or toppings were added too early.
 Bake longer or broil briefly to re-crisp.

How many tacos does this make?

About 16–20 tacos enough for 4–6 people.