These Easy Crispy Cheesy Ground Beef Tacos are packed with flavor and so much fun to eat! With crispy shells and cheesy goodness inside, they are sure to please everyone.
Making these tacos is a breeze! I love when dinner is ready in no time, and these are perfect for taco nights or busy weeknights. Just add your favorite toppings and enjoy! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef to reduce excess grease. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken work well too!
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought is convenient, but homemade seasoning can be tailored to your taste. You can mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika for a quick homemade blend.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are soft and easy to fold, but corn tortillas can be used for a traditional crunch. Just warm them up before assembly to make them more flexible.
Cheese: Cheddar adds great flavor, but feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a little spice. A dairy-free cheese is a good option for lactose intolerance.
How Do I Get My Tacos Extra Crispy?
Achieving that perfect crispy taco is all about cooking technique. Start by ensuring your skillet is hot enough to achieve a golden color. Here’s how:
- Warm the pan and add oil before cooking the tortillas.
- Cook the folded tortillas for 2-3 minutes on each side. Press down slightly with a spatula to help them crisp up.
- If you’re making a large batch, keep the finished tacos warm in a low oven while you finish frying the rest.
With these simple tips, you’ll have crispy, cheesy tacos every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Easy Crispy Cheesy Ground Beef Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
- 1/2 cup water
- 8 small flour tortillas (6-inch size)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil
- Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, salsa, sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation and cooking time. It’s a quick and fun meal option, especially for those busy weeknights or taco nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s fully browned. Use a spatula to break the beef into small pieces as it cooks. If there’s any excess grease, drain it off carefully to keep your tacos from being overly greasy.
2. Season the Beef:
Add the taco seasoning and water to the skillet with the beef. Stir everything together well, then let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This will help the sauce thicken and coat the beef nicely. Once done, remove the skillet from heat.
3. Prepare to Assemble:
Heat a clean skillet or frying pan over medium heat. This is where you’ll make your crispy tacos!
4. Assemble Your Tacos:
To build each taco, place one tortilla in the skillet. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of shredded cheese evenly on one half of the tortilla. This will help keep the other ingredients in place.
5. Add the Beef:
Spoon approximately 2-3 tablespoons of the seasoned ground beef over the cheese. Now, carefully fold the tortilla in half, pressing gently to seal it shut.
6. Cook Until Crispy:
Add 1 tablespoon of oil to the hot skillet and place the folded tortilla in it. Cook each side for about 2-3 minutes, or until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese has melted inside. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
7. Complete the Tacos:
Once done, carefully remove the crispy taco from the pan and place it on a plate to cool slightly. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious crispy cheesy tacos immediately! Feel free to add your favorite toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, salsa, sliced jalapeños, or chopped cilantro. Dig in and enjoy the tasty goodness!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a leaner option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as they may cook faster than ground beef. Season them well to enhance flavor!
How Can I Make These Tacos Spicier?
For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños to the filling or sprinkle some cayenne pepper in with the taco seasoning. You can also top your tacos with spicy salsa or hot sauce before serving.
Can I Prepare the Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can cook the ground beef mixture a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to make the tacos, reheat it gently on the stove before assembling.
How Do I Store Leftover Tacos?
If you have any leftover tacos, store them in separate airtight containers. The taco filling can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days, while assembled tacos are best eaten fresh. Reheat the filling before making fresh tacos to enjoy!
