Get ready to transform your taco night from ordinary to extraordinary with these mouthwatering Baked Sour Cream Tacos! Imagine crispy golden shells packed with perfectly seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and a creamy sour cream topping that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds. This Mexican-inspired dish is not just a meal; it's a flavor explosion that combines convenience, taste, and pure culinary joy in one simple recipe.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 taco shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 packet taco seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook for 6-8 minutes until no pink remains.
- Drain excess fat from the beef, then return the skillet to the stove. Add the entire packet of taco seasoning and follow the package instructions, typically mixing with water and simmering for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Arrange the taco shells on the prepared baking sheet, standing them upright. If needed, use the baking sheet's edges or crumpled aluminum foil to help them stay open.
- Carefully fill each taco shell with the seasoned ground beef, distributing it evenly.
- Top the beef with a generous layer of shredded cheese, ensuring even coverage.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the taco shells are crisp and golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes to prevent burning.
- Top the baked tacos with diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and dollops of sour cream.
- Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your Baked Sour Cream Tacos!
Tips
- For maximum flavor, choose high-quality ground beef with a slightly higher fat content (80/20 mix) to ensure juicy, well-seasoned meat.
- To prevent soggy taco shells, make sure to drain the ground beef thoroughly and pat it dry before adding seasoning.
- For extra crispy shells, lightly brush the taco shells with olive oil before filling and baking.
- Experiment with different cheese blends like a mix of cheddar and pepper jack for added complexity.
- Prep all your toppings in advance to make the final assembly quick and easy.
- Let the tacos rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the cheese to set and prevent burning your mouth.
- For a healthier version, consider using ground turkey or lean ground beef and adding extra vegetables to the filling.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 90mg
