Cheesy Rotel Tacos
Cheesy Rotel Tacos for Taco Tuesday
Taco Tuesday just got an upgrade with these irresistible Cheesy Rotel Tacos. Combining the hearty flavors of seasoned ground beef with a creamy, cheesy Rotel sauce, these tacos are sure to become a family favorite. Simple to prepare and packed with flavor, they are perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
These Cheesy Rotel Tacos bring together some of the best elements of comfort food into a handheld delight. The combination of savory ground beef, zesty Rotel tomatoes, and gooey cheddar cheese creates a flavor burst in every bite. Adding optional hot sauce gives it just the right amount of kick for spice enthusiasts. Not only are they delicious, but they also come together in about 40 minutes, allowing you more time to enjoy your meal and less time in the kitchen. Serve these with Spanish rice, and your Taco Tuesday will be complete.
Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Rotel Tacos
1. **Use Freshly Shredded Cheese**: Avoid pre-shredded cheese for the best results. Freshly shredded cheddar melts better and gives a smoother sauce.
2. **Adjust Spice Levels**: Customize the heat level by adding more or less hot sauce to the cheese sauce. You can also experiment with different taco seasoning blends.
3. **Crisp Taco Shells**: Preheat your taco shells in the oven before assembling. This enhances their texture and makes your tacos even more delicious.
4. **Make Ahead**: You can prepare the beef and cheese mixture in advance and heat it up when you’re ready to serve, making Taco Tuesday even easier.
5. **Variations**: Consider adding additional toppings such as avocado, jalapeños, or fresh cilantro to personalize your tacos.
Ingredients
To make these cheesy delights, gather the following ingredients:
– **3 lbs ground beef**
– **1–2 tbsp olive oil** (for sautéing)
– **1 medium onion**, diced
– **Taco seasoning** (to taste)
– **2 tbsp butter**
– **1/3 cup all-purpose flour**
– **2½ cups milk**
– **2 small cans Rotel** (diced tomatoes & green chilies, undrained)
– **2 blocks cheddar cheese**, freshly shredded
– **1/3 cup sour cream**
– **A few dashes of hot sauce**, to taste
– **Nacho cheese flavored hard taco shells**
– **Optional**: Spanish rice for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté them until softened, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Next, add the ground beef along with a generous amount of taco seasoning. Cook while breaking it up until the beef is browned and fully cooked, approximately 7-10 minutes. Once done, remove the beef and onions from the pot, leaving some of the flavorful drippings behind.
Step 2: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a light roux. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened, usually around 4-5 minutes. Once thickened, add both cans of Rotel with their juices, then stir in the freshly shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted, and the sauce becomes velvety.
Step 3: Return the cooked ground beef and onions to the cheese sauce, stirring everything together until well combined. Allow this mixture to simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, letting it thicken and become extra creamy, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: While the beef and cheese mixture is simmering, prepare your taco shells by arranging the nacho cheese flavored taco shells on a baking sheet. Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm the shells for about 5 minutes, which will help crisp them up nicely.
Step 5: Once the beef mixture is ready and the taco shells are warm, it’s time to assemble. Generously fill each crispy taco shell with the cheesy Rotel beef mixture, letting it spill out a little for that perfect look. Serve these tacos hot, alongside Spanish rice if desired for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative to ground beef and works well in this recipe. Just be aware that it may be a bit less flavorful, so you may want to add extra seasoning.
How can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with black beans or lentils, and ensure your taco seasoning is veggie-friendly. The cheesy sauce is already vegetarian, ensuring delicious flavors throughout!
Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Yes! You can make the cheesy beef mixture ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it when ready to serve, making Taco Tuesday much easier!
What other toppings can I add?
You can customize your tacos with a variety of toppings such as diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, jalapeños, or fresh cilantro for a fresh crunch and added flavor.
How do I store leftover tacos?
The filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. However, it’s best to store the taco shells separately to keep them crispy.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Rotel Tacos are perfect for any taco lover looking to enjoy a flavorful, quick, and easy meal. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can bring a taste of a Mexican fiesta to your dinner table. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or any day of the week, these cheesy tacos are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. Don’t forget to customize them with your favorite toppings! Enjoy!