Dinner

Baked Shredded Beef Tacos {Paleo, Dairy-Free} Recipe

ByLila Prescott November 4, 2025November 4, 2025

Introduction

These baked shredded beef tacos are crispy, savory, and simple to prepare. Perfect for those following a paleo or dairy-free diet, they use tender slow-cooked beef and grain-free tortillas. Enjoy a flavorful meal without the usual cheese or sour cream toppings!

A close-up view of a soft taco held by a woman's hand with painted nails, showing four visible layers: a light beige soft tortilla folded in half as the base, a green leafy lettuce layer inside the fold, topped with bright pink pickled onion slices, and finished with a dollop of chunky green guacamole on the very top. The background features a white marbled texture with parts of another taco slightly blurred. The lighting is natural and bright, highlighting the vibrant colors and textures of the taco. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 lbs beef stew meat
1 medium onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp sea salt
½ tsp black pepper

1 tsp ground cumin
2 bay leaves
1 ½ cups beef broth

1 tbsp lime juice
6 grain-free tortillas (almond flour or cassava)
2 tbsp oil for brushing (such as avocado or olive oil)

Pickled red onions, shredded lettuce, guacamole, and cilantro for toppings

Instructions

Step 1: Place the beef stew meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, oregano, sea salt, black pepper, cumin, bay leaves, and beef broth into a slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6-8 hours, until the meat is tender and shreds easily. Alternatively, cook in an Instant Pot on high pressure for 1 hour.
Step 2: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a parchment-lined baking sheet, lay out the tortillas. Spoon 1 to 2 large spoonfuls of shredded beef onto one half of each tortilla, then carefully fold them over.

Step 3: Brush the tortillas with oil. Place a second baking sheet on top to keep the tacos folded during baking. Bake for 10 minutes, then gently remove the top baking sheet and bake for an additional 3 to 5 minutes until the tortillas are crispy and golden.
Step 4: Remove from the oven, add your favorite toppings such as pickled red onions, shredded lettuce, guacamole, and cilantro. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use cassava tortillas instead of almond flour tortillas for an AIP-compliant version; note they may require a few extra minutes in the oven to crisp properly.

For extra flavor, add a splash of lime juice to the shredded beef after cooking.
If you like spicier tacos, incorporate a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder in the beef seasoning if your diet allows.
Make the shredded beef in advance and refrigerate or freeze to save time on busy days.

Storage

Store cooked shredded beef and tortillas separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat the beef and tortillas in the oven before assembling and adding fresh toppings. Avoid storing assembled tacos as the tortillas may become soggy.

How to Serve

Four quesadilla wedges are arranged in a row on a white speckled oval plate with a thin brown rim, placed on a white marbled surface. Each quesadilla is golden brown on the outside with a soft texture and is topped with shredded lettuce, bright pink pickled onions, chopped green cilantro, and a dollop of chunky green guacamole. Lime wedges are placed on the plate around the quesadillas. To the top right of the plate, there is a small earth-toned bowl containing more guacamole. The light creates soft shadows, enhancing the textures and colors. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these tacos in an Instant Pot instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook the beef on high pressure for 1 hour in an Instant Pot, which will yield tender, shreddable meat similar to slow cooking.

What are good alternatives to almond flour tortillas?

Cassava tortillas are a great grain-free and AIP-friendly alternative. You can also look for other paleo or grain-free tortilla brands available in stores or make your own at home.