Cheesy Beef Tacos – A Flavorful Taco Night Staple

Introduction
Turn your Taco Night into a fiesta with these Cheesy Beef Tacos! Crispy taco shells filled with perfectly seasoned beef, fresh veggies, and a luscious cheese sauce. This simple yet satisfying recipe is ideal for family dinners, parties, or whenever you’re craving something deliciously cheesy and full of flavor.

Ingredients

For the taco filling:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade mix)
• 1/4 cup water

For the tacos:

• 8 crispy taco shells
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup diced jalapeños (optional, for a spicy kick)
• 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend

For the cheese sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Mix well and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth, cooking for 1 minute.
2. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy. Add cayenne pepper for a bit of heat if desired.

Step 3: Assemble the Tacos

1. Warm the taco shells in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes.
2. Layer each taco shell with shredded lettuce, the seasoned beef filling, and diced tomatoes.
3. Drizzle the warm cheese sauce over the top and sprinkle with the shredded Mexican cheese blend.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish with optional toppings like diced jalapeños, fresh cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy your cheesy, flavorful tacos!

Tips for Success

• Customize the protein: Substitute ground beef with chicken, turkey, or a plant-based alternative.
• Add texture: Include crushed tortilla chips or crispy fried onions for an extra crunch.
• Go extra cheesy: Use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or Colby for added richness.
• Meal prep: Cook the beef filling and cheese sauce ahead of time to make taco assembly quicker.

Conclusion
Cheesy Beef Tacos are the ultimate comfort food with their crispy shells, juicy beef, fresh toppings, and creamy cheese sauce. This recipe is quick, customizable, and guaranteed to satisfy taco cravings. It’s perfect for any gathering or weeknight meal.

Call to Action
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