Baked Tacos

My mother-in-law made these one night for Bryon and Sam while they were down there for dinner. Sam couldn't stop talking about these. I decided to give them a try. My mom made them for my family one weekend while she was up helping me. They lived up to their reputation! They were a hit for everyone in my family.

Serves: 8-10

2 Pounds Ground Beef
4 Teaspoons Dry Minced Onion
2 Teaspoons Chili Powder
1 Teaspoon Cornstarch
1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder
1 Teaspoon Ground Cumin
1/2 Teaspoon Dried Oregano
1/8 Teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
1 (8 Ounce) Can Tomato Sauce
1 (16 Ounce) Can Refried Beans
2 Cups Colby Jack Cheese, Shredded
18-20 Hard Taco Shells

Toppings:
Shredded Lettuce
Diced Tomatoes
Salsa
Guacamole

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. In a small bowl combine minced onion, chili powder, cornstarch, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Mix well and set aside.

In a large skillet, brown ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess liquid. Add refried beans, tomato sauce and bowl of seasonings. Mix well.

Spoon the taco meat mixture into the taco shells. Place in a 9x13 baking dish, standing up. Sprinkle cheese over the top of the taco meat in each shell. Place into the 400 degree oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tacos are heating through. Remove from the oven and garnish with toppings.

If you are short on time or seasonings, you can replace all the above seasonings for a package of taco seasoning.