Description
Crispy taco shells filled with your favorite toppings and drizzled with a rich, creamy cheese sauce for the ultimate Tex-Mex meal.
Ingredients
- 8 taco shells (hard or soft)
- 1 lb ground beef or chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, salsa, sour cream, jalapeños
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook ground beef or chicken until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened. Set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Slowly whisk in milk until smooth. Cook for 3-4 minutes until thickened.
- Stir in shredded cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until melted and creamy.
- Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
- Fill taco shells with seasoned meat, then drizzle generously with creamy cheese sauce.
- Add desired toppings and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use ground turkey for a leaner option.
- You can make the cheese sauce spicier by adding diced jalapeños or hot sauce.
- Best served immediately so the shells stay crispy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex