Loaded Taco Creamy Cheese Sauce (Print Format)
Taco shells stuffed with savory beef, topped with a creamy cheese sauce, fresh vegetables, and vibrant toppings.
# Ingredients:
→ Seasoned Ground Beef
01 -
1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
02 -
1 small onion, diced
03 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
04 -
1 packet taco seasoning or homemade blend
05 -
1/4 cup water
06 -
Salt and pepper to taste
→ Creamy Cheese Sauce
07 -
3 tablespoons butter
08 -
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
09 -
1 1/2 cups whole milk
10 -
8 oz cream cheese, softened
11 -
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
12 -
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
13 -
1 small bell pepper (red or green), diced
14 -
1/4 cup diced tomatoes
15 -
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
16 -
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
17 -
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
18 -
Salt and pepper to taste
19 -
Red pepper flakes (optional)
→ Additional Ingredients
20 -
8-10 hard taco shells
21 -
Extra shredded cheese for topping
22 -
Fresh cilantro for garnish
23 -
Sour cream (optional)
24 -
Hot sauce (optional)
# Steps:
01 -
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 5 minutes until the liquid reduces and the mixture thickens. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
02 -
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to prevent lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and add the softened cream cheese, whisking until smooth and melted. Add the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses gradually, stirring until completely melted and smooth. Stir in the diced bell pepper, tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, and cilantro. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Keep the sauce warm over low heat, stirring occasionally.
03 -
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place taco shells on a baking sheet and warm for 3-5 minutes until crispy.
04 -
Fill each taco shell with 2-3 tablespoons of the seasoned ground beef mixture. Generously spoon the creamy cheese sauce over each filled taco shell, allowing it to overflow slightly. Sprinkle with extra shredded cheese and return to the oven for 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese topping. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately with sour cream and hot sauce on the side.