Mini Crispy Baked Ground Beef Tacos in Just 35 Minutes

iFoodify.com

Everyday Culinary Delice

Mini crispy baked ground beef tacos are one of my favorite things to make. They’re crunchy, cheesy, and so easy to throw together.

I love making a big batch for taco night or when I have friends over. Whether it’s dinner or just a fun snack, they always disappear fast!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked, not fried – Less mess but still crispy.
Great for taco night or when friends come over – They go fast.
Easy to prep – Simple ingredients and no complicated steps.

Equipment You’ll Need

Cutting board – For prepping any toppings.
Sharp knife – To dice tomatoes, shred lettuce, or chop cilantro.
Large skillet – For cooking the ground beef.
Wooden spoon or spatula – To break up and stir the beef.
Measuring spoons – For seasoning the beef.
Measuring cups – For cheese and other toppings.
Baking sheet – To bake the tacos.
Parchment paper – Keeps the tortillas from sticking.
Pastry brush or oil sprayer – For lightly coating tortillas with avocado oil.
Tongs or spatula – To flip the tacos halfway through baking.

Key Ingredients

These tacos start with seasoned ground beef, lots of cheese, and regular or small taco shells or tortillas that crisp up perfectly in the oven. You can add your favorite toppings—shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or sour cream all work great.

What You’ll Need (With Substitutions!)

For the Tacos:

Ground beef – I use 85/15 beef for the best texture. Ground turkey or chicken works too.
Tomato paste – Adds depth to the beef. Can be skipped, but it makes a difference.
Corn tortillas – These crisp up the best. Flour tortillas will be softer.
Mexican blend cheese – A mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and queso quesadilla cheese. Pepper Jack or just cheddar works too.
Avocado oil – Helps the tortillas crisp up in the oven. Olive oil works too.

For the Taco Seasoning:

Paprika – Adds color and a little smokiness.
Cumin – Brings warmth to the seasoning.
Garlic powder + onion powder – Adds more flavor.
Oregano – A good balance to the spices. Mexican oregano is best.
Tomato powder – Adds a little tang. Can be skipped if you don’t have it.
Salt + black pepper – Brings everything together.
Cayenne (optional) – If you want some heat.

Taco Seasoning Shortcut

You can use 2 tbsp taco seasoning instead of the homemade mix.

Toppings & Sides:

Nacho cheese – Great for dipping.
Sour cream – A cool contrast to the crispy tacos.
Guacamole – Adds more to the meal.
Salsa or pico de gallo – Brings in fresh ingredients.
Shredded lettuce – Adds crunch.
Diced tomatoes – Brings color and freshness.
Pickled jalapeños – If you want some spice.

Why Use 85/15 Ground Beef?

85/15 has just the right amount of fat to keep the beef juicy without making the tacos greasy. If using 80/20, drain the extra grease before adding the seasoning.

How to Make Crispy Baked Tacos

Step 1: Cook the Beef

I cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Once it’s done, I drain any grease, then stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. This deepens the flavor before adding the spices.

I then stir in the homemade taco seasoning (or taco seasoning packet if using), add a splash of water, and let it simmer for a few minutes.

Step 2: Brush the Tortillas with Oil

I lightly brush one side of each tortilla with avocado oil and place them oil-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 3: Fill the Tacos Open-Faced

With the tortillas still open, I spoon the seasoned beef onto one side and sprinkle shredded cheese on top.

Step 4: Bake Open-Faced, Then Fold

I bake them at 425°F for 5-6 minutes, just until the tortillas start crisping up. Then, I carefully fold each taco in half, pressing them gently to hold their shape.

Step 5: Flip & Finish Baking

I let them bake for another 5-6 minutes, then flip them and bake for 3-4 more minutes until they’re crispy and golden.

Step 6: Add Toppings & Serve

Once the tacos are done, I top them with lettuce, diced tomatoes, and cilantro. I set out nacho cheese, sour cream, and guacamole for dipping.

Tip: Make It a Taco Night!

Set up a DIY taco bar with different toppings and dips so everyone can make their tacos how they like. Serve with nacho cheese, sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and pickled jalapeños.

Tips & Tricks

Don’t overfill – Too much filling makes them harder to crisp up.
Serve right away – They’re best fresh from the oven.

What To Serve Them With

When I make mini crispy baked ground beef tacos, I like to add a few other dishes to make it a full taco night. Here’s what I love serving with them:

I usually make a mix of these depending on what I have, and it all comes together for a great meal.

How To Serve Them

I love serving these mini tacos with salsa, sour cream, and guacamole. They’re also great with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans for a full meal.

I love reading your comments, and I try to get to all of them! Have you made mini tacos before? Let me know how you served them or if you added your own twist!