These Cheesy Rotel Tacos are a fun and tasty treat! With ground beef, spicy Rotel tomatoes, and gooey cheese, they’re packed with flavor and super easy to make!
I love how quickly these tacos come together. Throw everything in a skillet, fill the tortillas, and dinner is ready! Perfect for busy nights or when you’re craving something cheesy! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using regular ground beef for its flavor, but you can easily switch to ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You could also use plant-based meat for a vegetarian twist!
Rotel Diced Tomatoes: This is the star of the dish! If you can’t find Rotel, a can of diced tomatoes with added green chilies works well too. Just adjust the spice level to your taste!
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought packets are quick and easy, but homemade seasoning (a mix of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika) can taste better. Personalize it to suit your flavor preferences!
Cheese Blend: A Mexican cheese blend is perfect, but feel free to use just cheddar or Monterey Jack. For a creamy twist, add cream cheese into the beef mixture!
How Do I Get My Tacos Extra Crispy?
For crispy tacos, preheat your oven and bake them just until the cheese melts. You can also lightly toast the taco shells on a dry skillet before filling them. This gives a nice crunch!
- Place empty taco shells in the oven for a few minutes to crisp them up.
- Don’t overfill the tacos; a little beef mixture and cheese go a long way for crispiness.
With these tips, your Cheesy Rotel Tacos will be perfectly crispy and delicious every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Cheesy Rotel Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or about 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning)
- 1/4 cup water
- 8 taco shells (crispy corn shells)
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, etc.)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (for topping)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped white onion (for topping)
- Fresh chopped cilantro, for garnish
- Optional: lime wedges and sour cream or guacamole for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 15 minutes to cook. In no time, you’ll have a plate full of cheesy, savory tacos ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked. Make sure to break it apart with a spatula as it cooks so that it cooks evenly.
2. Drain the Grease
Once the beef is browned, carefully drain any excess grease from the skillet. You want to keep the flavor without excess fat!
3. Add Flavorful Ingredients
Add the drained Rotel tomatoes, taco seasoning, and water to the skillet. Stir everything together well to ensure the beef is evenly coated in the seasoning.
4. Simmer the Mixture
Let the beef mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. It should thicken up as the water evaporates, making it nice and flavorful!
5. Preheat Your Oven
While the beef is simmering, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready for the tacos.
6. Assemble the Tacos
Take your crispy taco shells and fill each one with a generous spoonful of the seasoned beef mixture. Don’t overfill, as you’ll want to add cheese on top too!
7. Add the Cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top of each taco filled with beef. This is the cheesy goodness that makes these tacos oh-so-delicious!
8. Bake to Perfection
Place the filled tacos upright on a baking sheet and bake them in the oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the taco shells are crispy.
9. Add Toppings
Once they’re out of the oven, top each taco with the diced tomatoes, chopped onions, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor!
10. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your tacos warm with lime wedges and optional sides like sour cream or guacamole. Dig in and enjoy the cheesy, spicy goodness!
These Cheesy Rotel Tacos are perfect for any occasion—quick dinners, parties, or just when you need a cheeseburger fix in taco form!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great as a leaner alternative. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and you’ll have a delicious filling that’s slightly lighter!
How Can I Make These Tacos Spicier?
If you like a kick, consider using hot Rotel instead of mild, or add some chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture for extra heat. You can also top your tacos with spicy salsa or hot sauce.
Can I Prepare the Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can cook the beef mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it when ready to assemble the tacos. You’ll save time on busy nights!
What Should I Do with Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven to crispen up the shells again before enjoying!