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Easy Oven-Baked Tacos with Ground Beef and Refried Beans

Makes 10 Tacos

Ingredients

For the Beef:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 –3 tablespoons taco seasoning see Notes for homemade mix
  • ¾ cup water

For the Tacos:

  • 10 flour tortillas 8-inch
  • 1 cup refried beans (make your own homemade refried beans
  • for the best flavor)
  • 1 –2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • Olive oil for brushing tortillas + pan

Toppings (optional but recommended!):

  • Shredded lettuce
  • Diced tomato
  • Sour cream
  • Guacamole
  • Salsa
  • Jalapeños scallions, cilantro, lime wedges

Instructions

  • Preheat: Heat oven to 190°C (375°F). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and brush lightly with olive oil.
  • Cook the beef: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions until softened and lightly golden. Add ground beef, cook until browned, then drain excess fat. Return beef to skillet, stir in taco seasoning and ¾ cup water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 5 minutes.
  • Assemble tacos: Place tortillas on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon beef mixture onto one side of each tortilla. Spread a spoonful of refried beans over the beef, sprinkle with cheese, and fold closed. Brush the tops lightly with olive oil.
  • Bake + broil: Bake for 15 minutes. Switch to broil for 3–5 minutes until the tops are golden brown.
  • Serve: Top with lettuce, tomato, sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or whatever you like. Serve immediately.

Notes

Homemade Taco Seasoning (for 1 pound of beef):
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of cayenne (optional for heat)
Mix and store in a jar — use 2–3 tablespoons per pound of beef.
Make it ahead: Cook the beef and beans earlier in the day. Assemble, bake, and broil when ready to serve.
Variations: Swap in pulled beef, shredded chicken, or even fish for the filling.