American-Style Hard Shell Tacos

I love American style tacos and I love this method. In this recipe we will mix refried beans into the taco meat, and it will make a world of difference.

[Picture forthcoming]

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground chuck 80/20
• 1/2 can refried beans
• 1/2 small bottle taco sauce
• 1 packet of taco seasoning (or your own seasoning blend)
• 1/2 yellow onion
• 1 package of taco shells (I like the "Stand and Stuff" Ortega's)
• 1 head iceberg lettuce
• 1 block extra sharp cheddar *Important! Do not buy the bagged pre-shredded cheddar!*
• Optional toppings: tomato, sour cream, cilantro, lime, etc.

Instructions

1. Core lettuce and run under cold water. Shake out excess water and set on a rack to drain. We do this first so the lettuce has time to drain its water after washing.
2. Preheat oven to the temperature specified on the box of taco shells.
3. Chop onion into 1/2 inch squares.
4. Cook beef and about 1 cup of the chopped onions together in a pan over medium heat just until there is no more visible pink in the meat. Set remaining onions aside for topping later if desired.
5. Drain the grease from the pan and return to burner on low.
6. Add whole packet of taco seasoning or your own seasoning blend and stir until the meat is coated.
7. Add 1/2 can of refried beans.
8. Add 1/2 bottle taco sauce. Stir until combined. Let simmer.
9. Put taco shells in the oven (instructions on box).
10. While taco shells are crisping up, chop your lettuce into thin strips and grate the cheddar cheese.
11. Assemble your tacos. Put your meat down first, then the cheese, then the lettuce on top.

Personally, I love the simplicity and flavor combination of just cheese and lettuce as toppings for my tacos because that's how I grew up eating them. Of course you can add tomato, sour cream, cilantro, and anything else you wish, but I recommend trying at least one with just lettuce and cheese.