Description
These Loaded Taco Creamy Cheese Sauce tacos combine seasoned ground beef and a luscious, cheesy sauce that elevates your taco night. Perfect for family dinners, game days, or any casual gathering, these tacos are packed with flavor and easy to customize with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
→ Seasoned Ground Beef
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning or homemade blend
- 1/4 cup water
- Salt and pepper to taste
→ Creamy Cheese Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 small bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
→ Additional Ingredients
- 8-10 hard taco shells
- Extra shredded cheese for topping
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Sour cream (optional)
- Hot sauce (optional)
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon until browned, about 6-8 minutes.
Step 2: Add Aromatics: Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Season the Beef: Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 5 minutes until the liquid reduces and the mixture thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux, ensuring there are no lumps.
Step 5: Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to prevent any lumps from forming. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly.
Step 6: Incorporate Cream Cheese: Reduce heat to low and add the softened cream cheese, whisking until smooth and completely melted.
Step 7: Add Cheeses: Add the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses gradually, stirring until completely melted and smooth.
Step 8: Add Vegetables and Spices: Stir in the diced bell pepper, tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, and cilantro. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste.
Step 9: Keep Warm: Keep the cheese sauce warm over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 10: Warm Taco Shells: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place taco shells on a baking sheet and warm for 3-5 minutes until crispy.
Step 11: Fill Tacos: Fill each taco shell with 2-3 tablespoons of the seasoned ground beef mixture.
Step 12: Top with Cheese Sauce: Generously spoon the creamy cheese sauce over each filled taco shell, allowing it to overflow slightly for that extra indulgence.
Step 13: Melt Cheese Topping: Sprinkle with extra shredded cheese and return to the oven for 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese topping.
Step 14: Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately with sour cream and hot sauce on the side, if desired.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a delightful twist on traditional tacos, offering a creamy, cheesy sauce that elevates the entire dish. It’s quick, customizable, and perfect for satisfying comfort food. The combination of savory ground beef and rich cheese sauce makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete meal.
- Offer a variety of toppings such as diced avocado, salsa, and pickled jalapeños.
- Pair with a crisp coleslaw for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the tacos.
Tips:
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce or use a hot taco seasoning.
- To save time, prepare the ground beef and cheese sauce ahead of time and store separately. Reheat before assembling the tacos.
- If you don’t have fresh cilantro, dried cilantro can be used, but fresh is preferred for its vibrant flavor.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Information: (per taco, approximate)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 700mg
Conclusion
These Loaded Taco Creamy Cheese Sauce tacos are an exciting and flavorful twist on a classic favorite. The creamy cheese sauce adds a luxurious touch, making these tacos a hit for any gathering. Enjoy the explosion of flavors and the ease of preparation!
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
- Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef. Just ensure it’s cooked thoroughly and adjust seasoning as needed.
- What type of cheese works best for the sauce?
- Cheddar and Monterey Jack provide a great flavor and melt well. However, you can also use a blend of other cheeses like Colby or Pepper Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?
- Absolutely! The cheese sauce can be made 1-2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently until smooth.
- How do I prevent the taco shells from getting soggy?
- Warm the taco shells in the oven just before filling them, and avoid overfilling them with the sauce. This helps maintain their crispiness.
- Can I add any vegetables to the ground beef mixture?
- Yes, feel free to add diced bell peppers, corn, or black beans to the ground beef mixture for added texture and nutrients.
