Ingredients

Beef Filling

• 2½ teaspoons cooking oil

• 1/3 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 mini sweet peppers or 1/2 bell pepper, thinly sliced

• 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (seeds removed for mild heat)

• 1 pound lean ground beef

• 1 teaspoon Mexican oregano, crushed

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 3/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• 1½ teaspoons onion powder

• 1½ teaspoons garlic powder

• 1½ teaspoons paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

• 1/4 cup water

Tacos

• Corn tortillas, warmed

• Olive oil, for brushing

• Taco seasoning or mild spice blend (optional, for tortilla seasoning)

• 2–3 cups shredded melting cheese (Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or Mexican blend)

Creamy Garlic Sauce

• 1 cup sour cream

• 2 large garlic cloves, finely grated

• 1–2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Toppings (optional)

• Shredded lettuce

• Diced tomatoes

• Avocado slices

• Pickled red onions

• Salsa

Instructions
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and fragrant. Stir in the peppers and jalapeño and cook for another 2–3 minutes.

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up as it cooks. Once the beef begins to brown, add all the seasonings, cilantro, and water. Stir well, cover, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, just until the beef is fully cooked and flavorful. Remove from heat.

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Lightly brush one side of each tortilla with olive oil. If desired, sprinkle lightly with seasoning for extra flavor. Flip the tortilla over and add a small amount of beef filling, followed by shredded cheese. Add a little more beef and cheese, then fold the tortilla in half. Place on the baking sheet. Repeat with remaining tortillas.

Bake the tacos slightly above the center rack for about 10 minutes, or until the tortillas are crisp and the cheese is melted.

While the tacos bake, prepare the garlic sauce by mixing sour cream, grated garlic, cilantro, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir until smooth and set aside.

Remove the tacos from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Serve with your favorite toppings and drizzle with the garlic sauce.

Notes or Tips

• Warming the tortillas first helps prevent cracking when folding.

• Lean ground beef works best to keep the tacos crisp, not greasy.

• You can swap beef for ground chicken or turkey if preferred.

• Serve with a fresh drink or fruit on the side for a complete meal.

These tacos are crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor without the hassle of frying. Encourage readers to share how they top theirs or what protein they use to make the recipe their own.