These crisp oven baked tacos bring back the fun of the mini tacos I loved as a kid. The beef and vegetables make a large batch, so they work well for a family dinner with leftovers.
A QUICK NOTE
The filling can make more than 30 tacos, depending on how much you put in each one. Assemble the number you need and use any leftover beef mixture for another meal. Warm the corn tortillas before folding to help prevent cracks.
INGREDIENTS
3–4 lb lean ground beef (adjust for the batch you want)
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 bell peppers, any color, diced
8 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup enchilada sauce
1–2 packages (30 tortillas per package) yellow corn tortillas
Mexican blend cheese, for filling
Cooking spray
SEASONING
Choose one:
Store-bought taco seasoning, to taste
Or use this DIY blend:
6 tsp paprika
1 tsp kosher salt
1 tsp black pepper
1½ tsp cumin
1½ tsp crushed chipotle pepper
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly coat it with cooking spray.
2. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion, bell peppers, and garlic, and cook until the beef is fully cooked and the vegetables soften.
3. Stir in your chosen taco seasoning during the last couple of minutes of cooking. Reduce the heat to medium-low, add the enchilada sauce, and stir until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from the heat.
4. Wrap the tortillas in a slightly damp paper towel and microwave for 60–90 seconds to soften. Warm them a little longer if they crack when folded.
5. Place the tortillas on the prepared baking sheet. On one half of each tortilla, add a pinch of cheese, a scoop of beef mixture, and another pinch of cheese. Fold in half and gently press closed.
6. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray. Place a wire cooling rack over the tacos to keep them closed while baking. If needed, use another baking sheet on top and remove it after a few minutes, once the tacos hold their shape.
7. Bake for 18–20 minutes, until golden brown and crisp. For extra crispness, broil for 1–3 minutes at the end, watching closely. Serve with vegetables and beans, if desired.
