Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium-high heat. Break up the meat with a spoon as it cooks. Once no pink remains, drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the taco seasoning and water (or broth) to the cooked meat. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid has evaporated and the meat is well coated.
Step 4: Arrange the hard taco shells open-side up in a 9x13 inch baking dish. You may need to gently lean them against each other or use a taco rack if available.
Step 5: Spoon about 1 tablespoon of shredded cheese into the bottom of each taco shell. This helps prevent soggy bottoms and adds a delicious cheesy layer.
Step 6: Evenly distribute the seasoned ground meat filling into each cheese-lined taco shell.
Step 7: Top the meat filling with another generous layer of shredded cheese, ensuring each taco is well covered.
Step 8: Carefully transfer the baking dish to your preheated oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the taco shells are golden and crispy, and the cheese is thoroughly melted and bubbly.
Step 9: Remove the tacos from the oven and let them cool for 1-2 minutes before handling, as the cheese will be very hot.
Step 10: Garnish with your favorite toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, salsa, guacamole, or fresh cilantro. Serve immediately and enjoy your crispy, loaded Oven-Baked Cheesy Tacos!