Taco Grilled Cheese
If you’re searching for a comfort food mash-up that is as delicious as it is fun, look no further than this Taco Grilled Cheese! Imagine the gooey, melty goodness of a classic grilled cheese sandwich, harmoniously blended with the bold flavors of taco seasoning and juicy ground beef. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend treat. Grab your skillet, and let’s get cooking!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
You’re going to adore this Taco Grilled Cheese for several reasons. First, it combines two beloved comfort foods into one incredible dish. Second, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights or when you just want something satisfying without a lot of fuss. Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser; whether you’re cooking for family or friends, everyone will be clamoring for seconds!
What You’ll Gather
To make this Taco Grilled Cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 (1 oz) package Old El Paso seasoning
- ½ cup water
- 12 slices of sourdough bread
- 6 tablespoons butter, softened
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Toppings: sour cream, guacamole, tomatoes, green onions
Setup & Equipment
Before you dive into the cooking, gather your kitchen essentials:
- Large skillet for browning the ground beef
- Spatula for flipping sandwiches
- Cutting board and knife for prepping toppings
- Serving plates for enjoying your delicious creations
Taco Grilled Cheese in Steps
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Start by heating your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with your spatula as it cooks. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Add Taco Seasoning
Once the beef is nicely browned, stir in the Old El Paso seasoning and water. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Bread
While the beef is cooking, spread softened butter on one side of each slice of sourdough bread. This will give your grilled cheese that irresistible golden crust.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches
On the unbuttered side of six slices of bread, layer a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese, followed by a scoop of the seasoned ground beef. Top with another layer of cheese and place another slice of bread on top, buttered side facing out.
Step 5: Grill the Sandwiches
Heat your skillet over medium heat again. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. You may need to press down gently with your spatula to ensure even grilling.
Step 6: Serve with Toppings
Once your Taco Grilled Cheese sandwiches are ready, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a minute. Slice them in half and serve with a dollop of sour cream, guacamole, diced tomatoes, and chopped green onions. Enjoy the melty, cheesy goodness!
Better Choices & Swaps
If you’re looking to customize your Taco Grilled Cheese, consider these swaps:
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
- Swap out cheddar for pepper jack cheese for an extra kick.
- Try a different type of bread, like whole wheat or gluten-free, depending on your preferences.
- Add black beans or corn for additional flavor and texture.
Testing Timeline
If you’re interested in perfecting your Taco Grilled Cheese, here’s a simple timeline:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Freezer-Friendly Notes
If you want to make Taco Grilled Cheese ahead of time, consider these tips:
- Assemble the sandwiches but do not grill them. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- When you’re ready to eat, thaw the sandwiches in the fridge overnight and grill as directed.
- You can also freeze the seasoned ground beef separately and use it in other dishes.
FAQ
Can I make this Taco Grilled Cheese vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or simply use refried beans for a hearty filling.
What can I serve with Taco Grilled Cheese?
This dish pairs perfectly with a side salad, tortilla chips, or a bowl of salsa for dipping.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use a skillet or the oven to maintain that crispy texture.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Mozzarella, gouda, or a blend of cheeses can add unique flavors to your grilled cheese.
Hungry for More?
If this Taco Grilled Cheese has your taste buds tingling, you’ll want to explore more delicious recipes that blend comfort with creativity. Check out our other fun twists on classic dishes, such as loaded nacho fries, creamy taco pasta, or spicy quesadilla melts. Each recipe is designed to bring joy to your table and satisfy your cravings.
There’s nothing quite like the combination of a classic grilled cheese with the bold flavors of tacos. This Taco Grilled Cheese recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The crispy, buttery bread enveloping the savory, seasoned beef and oozing cheese is sure to become a favorite in your household. So why wait? Get started on your Taco Grilled Cheese journey today, and let each bite take you to flavor town!
Taco Grilled Cheese
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by heating your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with your spatula as it cooks. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the beef is nicely browned, stir in the Old El Paso seasoning and water. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
- While the beef is cooking, spread softened butter on one side of each slice of sourdough bread. This will give your grilled cheese that irresistible golden crust.
- On the unbuttered side of six slices of bread, layer a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese, followed by a scoop of the seasoned ground beef. Top with another layer of cheese and place another slice of bread on top, buttered side facing out.
- Heat your skillet over medium heat again. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. You may need to press down gently with your spatula to ensure even grilling.
- Once your Taco Grilled Cheese sandwiches are ready, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a minute. Slice them in half and serve with a dollop of sour cream, guacamole, diced tomatoes, and chopped green onions. Enjoy the melty, cheesy goodness!
Notes
- Assemble the sandwiches but do not grill them. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Thaw sandwiches in the fridge overnight before grilling.
- Add black beans or corn for additional flavor and texture.
