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Tacos are beloved across the globe, celebrated for their versatility and the vibrant flavors they offer. With origins tracing back to Mexican cuisine, tacos have evolved into countless variations, making them a staple in many households. From street vendors in Mexico to gourmet restaurants worldwide, tacos come in all shapes and sizes, accommodating a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. Among these adaptations is the innovative concept of baked tacos, which presents a delightful twist on the traditional taco experience.

Zesty Baked Tacos with Ground Beef

Discover the delightful twist on a classic favorite with zesty baked tacos! This innovative recipe combines seasoned ground beef, colorful vegetables, and melted cheese, all wrapped in crispy taco shells. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or meal prep, these tacos are easy to make and deliciously satisfying. Explore flavorful ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to customize this dish to your liking. Enjoy a flavorful and comforting meal that’s sure to impress!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb ground beef

1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade)

1 cup diced bell peppers (a vibrant mix of red, green, and yellow)

½ cup finely chopped onion

1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained

1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

1 cup sour cream

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup salsa

12 small taco shells

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Slices of avocado (for serving)

Lime wedges (for a zesty finish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to create the perfect environment for baking your tacos.

    Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook it for about 5 minutes or until it’s nicely browned, stirring occasionally. Once done, carefully drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily.

      Incorporate the Vegetables and Seasoning: To the browned beef, add the diced bell peppers and chopped onions. Sauté them together in the skillet for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften. Next, add the taco seasoning according to package instructions (usually with a small amount of water), stirring until everything is well combined and coated in flavor.

        Mix in Beans and Corn: Stir in the rinsed black beans and corn kernels and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. This will heat everything through and enhance the flavors. Once cooked, remove the skillet from the heat.

          Assemble the Tacos: In a baking dish, carefully arrange the taco shells upright, ensuring they are stable. Begin spooning the delicious beef mixture evenly into each taco shell, allowing them to fill generously.

            Add Toppings: Pour the salsa generously over the filled tacos to give them a refreshing kick. Following this, dollop sour cream on top of each taco for creaminess. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over all the assembled tacos to ensure they become delectably cheesy during baking.

              Bake the Tacos: Carefully transfer the baking dish to your preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is deliciously melted and bubbly, creating a mouthwatering golden-brown top.

                Garnish and Serve: Once baked, take the tacos out of the oven and let them cool for a minute before serving. Garnish the tacos with a generous sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added flavor. Serve alongside slices of avocado, and lime wedges to allow everyone to add a zesty finish to their tacos.

                  Enjoy your Zesty Baked Tacos hot and watch as your family and friends delight in this vibrant, flavorful dish!

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4