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Loaded Cheesy Tacos: The Ultimate Flavorful Feast Recipe

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4.3 from 87 reviews

  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Description

Loaded Cheesy Tacos are a quick and delicious meal perfect for a flavorful feast. Ground beef seasoned with classic taco spices and simmered to perfection is nestled into crispy or soft taco shells, then topped with melted cheddar cheese, fresh lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and a dollop of creamy sour cream. Optional jalapeños, avocado, and cilantro add a fresh kick, making these tacos a crowd-pleaser suitable for any casual gathering or family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Beef Filling

  • 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 cup water
  • Olive oil for cooking (about 1 tablespoon)

Taco Shells and Toppings

  • 8 taco shells (hard or soft tortillas)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
  • 1 avocado, sliced (optional)
  • Hot sauce (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and no longer pink, stirring occasionally.
  2. Drain excess fat: Remove any excess fat from the skillet to keep the tacos from being greasy and to improve flavor.
  3. Add seasoning: Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef, then add 1 cup of water. Stir to combine fully.
  4. Simmer the beef mixture: Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  5. Prepare taco shells: If using hard taco shells, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange shells on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes until crispy and golden. For soft tortillas, warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side or wrap in foil and heat in the oven for a few minutes.
  6. Assemble tacos: Spoon the cooked beef mixture evenly into each taco shell.
  7. Add cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the hot beef to gently melt it.
  8. Add toppings: Layer shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and jalapeño slices if desired on each taco.
  9. Add sour cream: Dollop each taco with sour cream for creaminess.
  10. Optional garnishes: Add avocado slices on top and sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro for a vibrant finish.
  11. Serve: Arrange the tacos on a platter or plates, and offer hot sauce and additional toppings like extra cheese, salsa, or guacamole to customize each taco.
  12. Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy your loaded cheesy tacos with friends and family!

Notes

  • For a leaner option, use ground turkey instead of beef.
  • Soft tortillas can be used instead of hard taco shells for a different texture.
  • Adjust spiciness by adding or omitting jalapeños and hot sauce according to preference.
  • Leftover taco meat can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lime juice over the assembled tacos before serving.
  • To make it gluten-free, choose gluten-free taco seasoning and shells.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican

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Find it online: https://therecipeshome.com/loaded-cheesy-tacos-the-ultimate-flavorful-feast-recipe/