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Cheesy Rotel Beef Tacos Recipe

Cheesy Rotel Beef Tacos

These Cheesy Rotel Beef Tacos are loaded with savory ground beef, a creamy cheese sauce, and a kick of spice in every bite. Perfect for a quick, indulgent meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Simmering Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8 tacos
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Beef Mixture
  • 3 lbs ground beef
  • 1-2 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • Taco seasoning for beef and sauce
Cheesy Rotel Sauce
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 cups milk
  • 2 cans Rotel diced tomatoes & green chilies, undrained
  • 2 blocks cheddar cheese freshly shredded
  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • hot sauce a few dashes, to taste
  • Nacho cheese-flavored hard taco shells
  • Spanish rice for serving, optional

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Whisk
  • Baking Sheet

Method
 

  1. Cook the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened.
  3. Stir in the ground beef and a generous amount of taco seasoning. Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks.
  4. Remove the beef and onions from the pot, leaving a little of the drippings behind.
  5. Prepare the Cheesy Rotel Sauce: In the same pot, melt the butter. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes to form a light roux.
  6. Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth and slightly thickened.
  7. Stir in the Rotel (with juices) and gradually add the shredded cheddar. Continue stirring until the cheese melts into a smooth, velvety sauce.
  8. Mix in the sour cream, hot sauce, and a pinch more taco seasoning. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  9. Combine: Return the cooked beef and onions to the pot with the cheese sauce.
  10. Stir everything together and let simmer on low for about 10 minutes, until the mixture is thick and creamy.
  11. Warm the Taco Shells: Arrange taco shells on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 minutes to crisp them up.
  12. Assemble & Serve: Fill each taco shell generously with the cheesy beef mixture, letting it spill over for that indulgent look.
  13. Serve immediately, with Spanish rice on the side if desired.

Notes

For extra flavor, try adding a squeeze of lime juice or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro before serving. These tacos are versatile and can be customized with your favorite toppings.