Go Back
Crispy oven baked tacos with ground beef and melted cheese arranged on a baking sheet, golden and crunchy fresh from the oven

Crispy Oven Baked Tacos

Crispy oven baked tacos filled with seasoned ground beef, refried beans, and melted cheese. Baked to golden perfection without frying, ready in 30 minutes and perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Print Recipe Save to Pinterest
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef 80/20 recommended for best flavor
  • 1 package taco seasoning about 1 oz, store-bought
  • 0.5 cup refried beans canned
  • 8 corn tortillas thick-style recommended
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for brushing tortillas
  • 1.5 cups shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese
  • sour cream, salsa, and guacamole for serving

Equipment

  • Medium skillet
  • Large baking sheet
  • Pastry brush
  • Tongs or spatula

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F.
  2. In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, about 7 to 8 minutes. Drain excess grease. Add taco seasoning and about 2/3 cup water. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until sauce reduces and beef is well coated.
  3. Stir the refried beans into the seasoned beef until fully combined. Remove from heat.
  4. Arrange the 8 corn tortillas on a large baking sheet. Lightly brush both sides with olive oil, using a pastry brush. Do not over-oil.
  5. Place the oiled tortillas in the oven for 3 minutes until pliable and easy to fold without cracking.
  6. Remove from oven. Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of beef mixture onto one half of each tortilla. Sprinkle with shredded cheese. Fold the other half over and press gently to close. Return to oven and bake for 12 minutes.
  7. Flip each taco carefully using tongs and bake for an additional 8 to 10 minutes until both sides are golden and crispy. Watch closely in the final minutes. Serve immediately with sour cream, salsa, and guacamole.

Notes

Store filling and shells separately for up to 3 days. Reheat shells in a 375 degree F oven for 5 to 7 minutes to restore crispiness. Best enjoyed fresh from the oven. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.