How to Make Tacos with Cheese Recipe

Tacos with cheese are a beloved dish that brings together the crunch of a tortilla, the savory flavor of seasoned ground beef, and the creamy richness of cheese. Whether you’re making these for a family dinner, a casual gathering, or a quick weeknight meal, this easy-to-follow recipe is sure to satisfy. With just a few simple ingredients and a straightforward method, you can create cheesy, flavorful tacos in no time.

In this article, we’ll break down each step of the recipe, share helpful tips to elevate your tacos, and answer common questions about the dish. By the end, you’ll be ready to make the perfect cheesy tacos for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Tacos with Cheese Recipe

Quick and easy: This recipe is straightforward, taking less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Flavor-packed: With a combination of seasoned ground beef, salsa, and melted cheese, these tacos are bursting with flavor in every bite.
Crowd-pleaser: Tacos are universally loved, and this cheesy version will win over both kids and adults alike.
Customizable: You can easily add your favorite toppings or switch out ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients for Tacos with Cheese

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious taco recipe:

1 cup Cheddar cheese, grated: The cheese adds a creamy, sharp flavor that complements the seasoned beef and salsa. You can use mild or sharp Cheddar, depending on your preference.
12 6-inch tortillas: These act as the vessel for all the tasty fillings. You can use flour or corn tortillas based on your preference.

1 packet of taco seasoning: This seasoning mix gives the beef a robust, Mexican-inspired flavor. You can use store-bought seasoning or make your own if you prefer.
2 tablespoons melted butter: This is used to grease the tortillas and helps them crisp up while baking.
½ cup salsa: Salsa adds moisture and tangy flavor to the cheese mixture. Choose a mild or spicy salsa depending on your heat tolerance.

1 pound of ground beef: Ground beef is the main protein for this dish. Make sure to choose lean beef for the best flavor and texture.
8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Cream cheese adds a smooth, rich texture that pairs well with the salsa and ground beef.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Tacos with Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef

Cook the beef: Start by placing the ground beef in a frying pan over medium heat. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until it’s browned all the way through, which should take about 6-8 minutes.

Drain the fat: Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat from the pan. This will prevent your tacos from becoming greasy.
Add taco seasoning: Pour the packet of taco seasoning into the pan with the cooked beef. Follow the instructions on the packet, which typically involve adding some water and letting the mixture simmer until the seasoning is well absorbed.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Filling

Beat the cream cheese: In a medium-sized bowl, use a hand mixer or whisk to beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. This will ensure the filling is creamy and lump-free.
Mix in salsa: Add the ½ cup of salsa to the cream cheese and stir until well combined. This mixture will serve as the base for the filling, adding a tangy, spicy flavor to your tacos.

Step 3: Assemble the Tacos

Lay out the tortillas: Place the 12 tortillas on a clean surface or cutting board, ready to be filled.
Add cheese mixture: Spoon about a tablespoon of the cream cheese and salsa mixture into the center of each tortilla.
Add beef: Top the cheese mixture with a spoonful of the seasoned ground beef. Make sure each taco gets an even portion of beef.
Sprinkle grated Cheddar: Generously sprinkle some grated Cheddar cheese over the beef, adding that perfect cheesy touch.

Step 4: Fold and Bake

Fold the tortillas: Fold each tortilla in half, burrito-style, to encase the filling. Press them down gently to keep them closed.
Prepare the baking tray: Lightly spray a baking tray with non-stick spray or brush it with a little melted butter to prevent sticking.
Arrange and brush tortillas: Place the folded tortillas on the baking tray and brush the tops with the melted butter. This helps the tortillas crisp up in the oven.
Bake the tacos: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the tacos for 10-12 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden and crispy, and the cheese has melted.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the tacos are baked and golden brown, remove them from the oven and serve them hot. You can serve them as is or with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, or extra salsa.

Tips for the Perfect Tacos with Cheese

Choose the right tortillas: Flour tortillas will give you a softer, chewier taco, while corn tortillas provide a slightly more robust flavor and texture. You can use whichever you prefer.
Soften cream cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing. If it’s too cold, it won’t blend smoothly with the salsa. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before using or microwave it for 10-15 seconds.
Don’t overfill the tortillas: Be careful not to add too much filling to each taco, or they might break when you fold them. A tablespoon each of the cheese mixture and beef is usually enough.
Crispier tortillas: For extra crispy tortillas, you can lightly fry the tortillas in a skillet before filling them, or bake them for a few minutes longer until golden.
Add toppings: Feel free to customize your tacos with additional toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, or jalapeños.

Variations for Tacos with Cheese

Vegetarian option: You can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or even black beans for a vegetarian version of this recipe.

Spicier tacos: If you prefer a little more heat, you can use spicy salsa or add some chopped jalapeños to the cheese mixture. Alternatively, sprinkle a little cayenne pepper over the beef while cooking.

Different cheeses: While Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, you can experiment with other types of cheese like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! If you’re not a fan of ground beef, you can easily swap it out for ground chicken, turkey, or even shredded pork. The seasoning and cooking method will remain the same.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the beef and cheese mixture ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just assemble the tacos and bake.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Leftover tacos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.

4. Can I freeze tacos with cheese?

Yes, you can freeze the tacos before baking them. Simply assemble the tacos, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze them for about an hour. Once they’re frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven for a few extra minutes.

5. What other toppings can I add?

Some great taco toppings include sour cream, guacamole, extra salsa, diced onions, shredded lettuce, and cilantro. You can also add a squeeze of lime for a fresh burst of flavor.

Conclusion

Making tacos with cheese is a simple and delicious way to enjoy a Mexican-inspired meal at home. With minimal ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is perfect for taco night or any time you’re craving something cheesy and satisfying. Whether you stick to the original recipe or try out some of the suggested variations, your tacos are sure to be a hit!