Cheesy Beef & Bean Bake Tacos
These Cheesy Beef & Bean Bake Tacos are a delightful twist on traditional tacos that the whole family will love. With a flavorful filling of ground beef, hearty black beans, and zesty taco seasoning, these crispy taco shells are expertly loaded with a melty cheese topping, making for a satisfying and cheesy dinner experience. The kids enjoy creating their own loaded taco masterpieces with a variety of toppings, from fresh avocado to zesty salsa, adding a fun interactive element to mealtime. Whether you're feeding a crowd or meal prepping for a busy week ahead, this recipe can easily be adjusted to meet your family's needs. Enjoy the crunch, savor the flavors, and make lasting memories around the dinner table with this easy and delicious oven-baked taco recipe!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Ground Beef
1 (lb)
Onion
1 (small, finely diced)
Black Beans
2 (cups)
Taco Seasoning
2 (tablespoons)
Diced Tomatoes
1 (15 ounce can, drained)
Taco Shells
8 (for 1 meal)
Shredded Cheese
1 (cup, for 1 meal)
Toppings
to taste (shredded lettuce, salsa, avocado chunks, guacamole, corn)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef along with the finely diced onion over medium heat until the beef is fully cooked and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the pan.
3
Add the black beans, taco seasoning, and drained diced tomatoes to the beef and onion mixture. Stir well to combine, and let simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4
While your meat mixture simmers, arrange 8 taco shells in a 7x11-inch baking dish, standing upright.
5
Carefully spoon the beef and bean mixture into each taco shell, filling them generously.
6
Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each filled taco shell, making sure to cover them evenly.
7
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Offer a variety of toppings like shredded lettuce, salsa, avocado chunks, and guacamole on the side for everyone to customize their tacos.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Cheesy Beef & Bean Bake Tacos?
These are oven-baked tacos featuring a flavorful filling of ground beef, black beans, and taco seasoning, topped with melted cheese and various toppings.
What is the main protein used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of ground beef.
Can I substitute the ground beef?
Yes, you can easily substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
How many taco shells do I need for this recipe?
The recipe is designed for 8 taco shells.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
How long do the tacos need to bake?
Bake the tacos for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
What kind of beans are included in the filling?
The recipe uses 2 cups of black beans.
Can I use other types of beans?
Yes, pinto beans or kidney beans would also work well in this recipe.
Do I need to drain the diced tomatoes?
Yes, the 15-ounce can of diced tomatoes should be drained before adding to the beef mixture.
How long should the beef and bean mixture simmer?
Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
What size baking dish is recommended?
A 7x11-inch baking dish is recommended to stand the taco shells upright.
How much cheese is required for the topping?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of shredded cheese.
What are some recommended toppings?
Common toppings include shredded lettuce, salsa, avocado chunks, guacamole, and corn.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, it is a family-friendly recipe that kids enjoy because they can customize their own tacos.
How much taco seasoning should I use?
Use 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning.
Can I prepare the beef mixture in advance?
Yes, the beef and bean filling can be prepared ahead of time for easier meal prep.
How do I keep the taco shells from falling over?
Arranging them closely together in a 7x11-inch baking dish helps keep them standing upright.
Can I make these tacos spicy?
Yes, you can increase the heat by adding extra taco seasoning, jalapeños, or spicy salsa.
How should the onion be prepared?
One small onion should be finely diced.
Should I drain the fat from the ground beef?
Yes, you should drain any excess fat after browning the beef and onion.
Can I use soft tortillas instead?
While this recipe is designed for crispy shells, you can adapt it for soft tortillas, though the baking time may vary.
Is this recipe good for meal prepping?
Absolutely, this recipe can easily be adjusted or pre-assembled for a busy week ahead.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftover filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze the beef and bean mixture?
Yes, the cooked beef and bean mixture freezes well in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
What side dishes pair well with these tacos?
Spanish rice, refried beans, or a fresh garden salad are excellent side options.
How do I know when the tacos are done?
The tacos are ready when the cheese on top is completely melted and bubbly.
Can I add corn directly to the filling?
Yes, you can mix corn into the beef and bean mixture for added texture and flavor.
Can I use a Mexican cheese blend?
Yes, any melting cheese like a Mexican blend, Cheddar, or Monterey Jack works perfectly.
How many servings does this make?
This recipe typically serves 4 people, allowing for 2 tacos each.
Why are these tacos baked in the oven?
Baking melts the cheese onto the filling and crisps the shells for a more cohesive and delicious meal.