Description
Loaded Cheesy Tacos combine seasoned ground beef with melted cheddar and fresh toppings in crispy or soft taco shells, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Seasoning
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup water
Taco Shells and Cheese
- 8 taco shells (hard or soft tortillas)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
- 1 avocado, sliced (optional)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground beef and break it apart using a wooden spoon as it cooks.
- Brown the Meat: Cook the beef for 5-7 minutes until browned and no longer pink, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
- Drain Excess Fat: Remove any excess fat from the skillet to keep the tacos from becoming greasy.
- Add Taco Seasoning: Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef, then add 1 cup water (following packet instructions if store-bought).
- Simmer the Filling: Stir well and bring to a simmer. Let cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
- Preheat Oven for Hard Shells: If using hard taco shells, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Skip if using soft tortillas.
- Crisp the Hard Shells: Place hard taco shells on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes until golden and crispy, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Warm Soft Tortillas: For soft tortillas, warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds per side or wrap in foil and heat in the oven for a few minutes.
- Assemble Tacos: Fill each taco shell generously with the prepared beef mixture.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the hot beef to allow slight melting.
- Add Fresh Toppings: Layer shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sliced jalapeños if using.
- Add Sour Cream: Finish with a dollop of sour cream for creaminess.
- Add Avocado and Garnish: Optionally top with avocado slices and sprinkle chopped cilantro.
- Prepare for Serving: Arrange the filled tacos on a large platter or individual plates.
- Offer Extras: Serve with hot sauce and additional toppings like extra cheese, salsa, or guacamole.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy with friends and family.
Notes
- Use ground turkey as a leaner alternative to beef.
- Adjust jalapeños and hot sauce according to your spice preference.
- For softer tacos, use flour tortillas and warm them as instructed.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated; cheese may not melt as well on reheating.
- Adding fresh avocado just before serving prevents browning.
