Go Back

Cheesy Rotel Beef Tacos

Cheesy Rotel Beef Tacos are a flavorful and comforting dish made with ground beef, onions, taco seasoning, and a creamy cheese sauce, all served in crispy taco shells.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 3 pounds ground beef Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
  • 1–2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing.
  • 1 medium onion, diced Adds flavor and sweetness to the beef.
  • to taste taco seasoning Use your favorite blend.
  • 2 tablespoons butter For making the sauce.
  • ⅓ cup all-purpose flour Thickens the cheese sauce.
  • 2½ cups milk For the cheese sauce.
  • 2 cans Rotel (10 oz each, undrained) Diced tomatoes with green chilies.
  • 2 blocks cheddar cheese, freshly shredded For a rich, cheesy flavor.
  • ⅓ cup sour cream Adds creaminess and tang.
  • a few dashes hot sauce To taste for extra kick.
  • 1 package nacho cheese–flavored hard taco shells For serving.
  • optional Spanish rice For serving on the side.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent.
  3. Add the ground beef and season generously with taco seasoning. Cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.
  4. Once fully cooked, remove the beef and onions from the pot, leaving a bit of the drippings behind for flavor.
Making the sauce
  1. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to create a light roux.
  3. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously until smooth and slightly thickened.
  4. Stir in both cans of Rotel (including the liquid).
  5. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy.
  6. Mix in the sour cream, a few dashes of hot sauce, and a bit more taco seasoning. Adjust to taste.
  7. Return the cooked beef and onions to the pot with the cheese sauce.
  8. Stir well to fully combine. Let the mixture simmer over low heat for about 10 minutes, until thick and creamy.
Preparing the shells
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Arrange the taco shells on a baking sheet and warm them for about 5 minutes to get them nice and crispy.
  3. Spoon the cheesy beef mixture generously into each taco shell.
  4. Let it slightly overflow for that indulgent, cheesy look.

Notes

These tacos can be adapted for meal prep; filling stores well and reheats easily. For a healthier version, use lean beef and low-fat dairy.