Ingredients
Meat and Seasoning
- 2 pounds ground beef (90/10)
- 2 packages taco seasoning
Vegetables and Legumes
- 1 large white onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1 cup salsa
- 15 ounces canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 16-ounce can refried beans
Taco Components
- 20 taco shells (recommend Stand and Stuff taco shells)
Cheese
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 8 ounces Monterey jack cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray two 9x13-inch casserole dishes with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, thoroughly brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess liquid to ensure the filling isn’t watery.
- Cook Aromatics and Season: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the beef and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the onions become tender and translucent. Stir in the taco seasoning until the meat is evenly coated.
- Add Salsa and Beans: Remove the skillet from heat and mix in the salsa and rinsed black beans, combining all ingredients well to create the taco filling.
- Prepare Taco Shells: Arrange 10 taco shells in each casserole dish. Spread 1 tablespoon of refried beans inside each taco shell to add creamy texture.
- Fill Tacos: Spoon about ½ cup of the prepared meat and bean mixture into each taco shell, followed by ¼ cup of shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey jack cheese on top.
- Bake: Place both casserole dishes side by side on the same oven rack and bake for 7-10 minutes until the cheese melts and the tacos are heated through.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with your favorite toppings such as lettuce, sour cream, or cilantro if desired, and serve immediately for a deliciously simple taco night.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add jalapeños or chopped cilantro as garnish.
- Make sure to drain excess grease after browning the beef to avoid soggy tacos.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Use gluten-free taco shells to make this recipe gluten sensitive friendly.
- These tacos can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican