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Oven Baked Tacos

Oven Baked Tacos
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Oven Baked Tacos offer a quick, mess-free, and flavorful way to enjoy traditional tacos with crispy shells and customizable fillings. Ready in under 30 minutes, they are perfect for busy weeknights and can be easily adapted to various dietary preferences including vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein Base

  • 1 lb ground meat or plant-based protein (lean beef, chicken, turkey, or textured vegetable protein)

Seasoning

  • 2 tbsp taco seasoning (blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder)
  • 2–3 tbsp water (for simmering filling)

Taco Shells

  • 8–10 hard corn taco shells or soft tortillas (gluten-free if needed)

Cheese

  • 1 cup shredded cheese (mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)

Fresh Toppings

  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup diced onions
  • 2 tbsp chopped cilantro

Serving Accompaniments

  • Salsa (to taste)
  • Sour cream (to taste)
  • Optional: guacamole, sliced jalapeños, lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: Start by browning your ground meat or plant-based protein in a skillet over medium heat. Once cooked through, drain excess fat and stir in the taco seasoning along with a splash of water. Simmer until thickened and fragrant, creating that irresistible taco-flavored filling.
  2. Assemble the Tacos: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the taco shells upright on a baking sheet. Spoon the cooked filling into each shell, ensuring you fill them generously but without overstuffing to keep the shells intact.
  3. Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the filled tacos. Place the tray in the oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the shells turn crispy and golden brown.
  4. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and add fresh toppings like diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. Serve with salsa, guacamole, or a dollop of sour cream on the side for a fresh finish.

Notes

  • Use a Taco Rack: If available, a taco rack helps shells stay upright for easy filling and even baking.
  • Don’t Overfill: Filling too much can cause shells to crack or fillings to spill during baking.
  • Cheese Choice Matters: Use cheeses that melt nicely, like Monterey Jack or cheddar, for a gooey, satisfying texture.
  • Add Moisture Sparingly: A splash of water or salsa in the filling keeps it juicy without making shells soggy.
  • Prep Fresh Toppings Last: Add diced veggies and herbs just before serving so they stay vibrant and crisp.

Nutrition

Keywords: oven baked tacos, quick tacos, baked taco shells, easy taco recipe, gluten free tacos, vegetarian tacos, taco night

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