These Taco Boats are a fast, family-friendly dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights or any night you want something comforting and flavorful. They’re simple to make, easy to customize, and use everyday ingredients you probably already have on hand. If your household loves tacos, these will be an instant hit.
What Ingredients are needed to make Taco Boats?
- 2 lbs ground beef (or substitute ground chicken, turkey, or sausage)
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chiles)
- Two 8-count packages of soft tortilla bowls
- 2 oz taco seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 yellow onion, diced (optional)
- 8 oz grated sharp cheddar
- 8 oz grated pepper jack
- Optional toppings: lettuce, sour cream, salsa, hot sauce, cilantro, etc.
How to Make Taco Boats
Begin by browning the ground beef with the diced onion in a large skillet over medium heat. Break the meat into small crumbles as it cooks—using a potato masher or spoon works well. Once the meat is fully cooked, drain excess grease if desired.
A handy draining tip: line a bowl with aluminum foil, set a strainer on top, and drain the grease into the foil-lined bowl. When the grease cools and solidifies, discard the foil for easy cleanup.
Add the taco seasoning and 1 cup of water to the cooked meat, stirring to combine. Let it simmer briefly so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens. Stir in the rinsed and drained black beans and the Rotel, then remove from heat.
Tip: Taco Dip Idea
If you want a game-day dip, stop before assembling the bowls: spread this meat mixture into a baking dish, stir in some cheese, and bake until bubbly for a delicious taco dip.
To assemble the Taco Boats, line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil and arrange the soft tortilla bowls evenly. Spoon the meat and bean mixture into each bowl, top with a mix of grated sharp cheddar and pepper jack, and bake in a preheated 400°F oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
I buy cheese in blocks because it’s more economical and melts better. Grating your own cheese yields a superior texture for this recipe.
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Finish each Taco Boat with your favorite toppings and serve hot. They’re easy to pick up and eat with your hands, which kids always love.
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and a rating — feedback helps a lot and I enjoy hearing from you.
Taco Boats
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Ground Beef (ground chicken, turkey, or sausage will work too)
- 1 Yellow Onion, diced
- 2 oz Taco Seasoning
- 1 Cup Water
- 1 (15 oz) can Black Beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel
- Two 8-count Soft Flour Tortilla Bowls
- 8 oz Grated Sharp Cheddar
- 8 oz Grated Pepper Jack
- Optional toppings: lettuce, sour cream, hot sauce, etc.
Instructions
- 1. Brown the ground beef with the diced onion in a skillet over medium heat. Drain excess grease if desired.
- 2. Stir in the taco seasoning and 1 cup water. Simmer briefly until the mixture thickens slightly.
- 3. Add the Rotel and the rinsed, drained black beans. Mix and remove from heat.
- 4. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- 5. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place the tortilla bowls on it. Fill each bowl with the meat mixture and top with the shredded cheeses.
- 6. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Add desired toppings and serve hot.
@whatsmomcookin Let’s make some taco boats! #tacos #tacotuesday #easyrecipe #dinnerideas #mealideas #tacoboats #cheesy #whatsmomcookin #yum #food #cooking
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