Baked Tacos with Homemade Taco Seasoning

I got this recipe from the blog "Mommy? I'm Hungry!" and it was super quick and easy. It's really basic, the meat is flavored deliciously (I'll definitely be using it in other recipes as well), and you can be creative with the toppings :) AND this recipe includes a homemade taco seasoning too :)

Baked Tacos with Homemade Taco Seasoning

Taco Seasoning

1 tbsp chili powder

1/4 tsp garlic powder

1/4 tsp onion powder

1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

1/4 tsp dried oregano

1/2 tsp paprika

1 1/2 tsp ground cumin (I used WAY less, like maybe about 1/4 tsp)

1 tsp sea salt

1 tsp black pepper

1. Mix all spices together. Store in airtight container.

Tacos

2 lbs ground beef

1 small onion, diced

1 small can green chilies, diced (I used a fresh jalapeno)

1 can refried beans

1 8-oz can tomato sauce

1 recipe's-worth of taco seasoning (above)

2 C shredded cheese blend

18-20 hard taco shells

(shredded lettuce, diced tomato, salsa, sliced avocado, guacamole, sour cream, plain yogurt, lemon or lime wedges, sliced black olives, or any other desired toppings)

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.

2. In large skillet, brown ground beef and onion over medium-high heat. Drain off excess liquid.

3. Return to pan, add chilies, beans, tomato sauce, and taco seasoning. Mix well and cook for a few more minutes if mixture seems runny.

4. Spoon meat mixture into taco shells and place into a 9x13 baking dish, standing up.

5. Sprinkle cheese on top of taco meat and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until cheese has melted and tacos are heated through.

I served these with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, plain yogurt, sliced black olives, and lemon wedges (other ideas: salsa, sliced avocado, guacamole, sour cream... the list goes on!). Enjoy!!!