Ingredients
For the Tacos
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (about 1 ounce)
- 12 hard taco shells
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup diced onions (optional)
For the Chipotle Ranch Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
- 1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning and a splash of water according to package instructions. Simmer for 5 minutes until well combined and fragrant.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the tacos.
- Fill the Taco Shells: Arrange the hard taco shells standing up in a baking dish or on a baking sheet lined with foil for easy cleanup. Spoon the seasoned ground beef evenly into each shell.
- Bake the Tacos: Place the filled taco shells in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes or until the shells are crispy and the beef is heated through.
- Make the Chipotle Ranch Sauce: While the tacos bake, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch seasoning mix, chopped chipotle peppers, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Tacos: Once the tacos are out of the oven, top each with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheddar cheese. Drizzle generously with the chipotle ranch sauce.
- Serve: Serve immediately while the tacos are crispy and the toppings are fresh. Enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- If you prefer softer tacos, heat the shells for less time or warm them in the microwave before filling.
- For extra heat, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chipotle ranch sauce.
- Leftover taco filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Use gluten-free taco shells and ranch seasoning to make this meal gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican