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Crispy Cheese Shell Tacos with Ground Beef & Queso

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients
  

Taco Shells:
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
Beef Filling:
  • 1 lb ground beef (90% lean recommended)
  • 1 packet Taco seasoning
  • 1/3 cup water (if needed)
Creamy Queso Sauce & Toppings:
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup hredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tbsp chipotle sauce (or your favorite hot sauce)
  • 1/2 cup diced fresh tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Method
 

  1. Prep the oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Form the cheese rounds: Make small piles of cheese, using about 1/3 cup for each one, spaced apart on the sheet. Flatten each pile slightly into a circle.
  3. Bake: Bake for 6 to 8 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
  4. Cool slightly: Let cool for 1 minute.
  5. Shape the shells: Hang the cheese over a wooden spoon handle or the edge of a bowl to form taco shapes. Let them cool into a crispy shell.
  6. Cook the meat: While the shells cool, cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned. Drain any excess grease.
  7. Season the meat: Stir in the taco seasoning packet and add water if needed for a saucy filling. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the meat. Remove from heat.
  8. Make the queso: In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, warm the heavy cream. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the chipotle sauce until smooth and fully melted.
  9. Assemble: Fill the cooled, crispy cheese shells with the warm seasoned ground beef. Drizzle generously with the warm queso sauce, and garnish with the diced tomatoes and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately!