Best Ground Beef Taco Recipe
This Best Ground Beef Taco Recipe is a quick and easy meal packed with bold Mexican flavors. Juicy, seasoned ground beef is cooked to perfection with a blend of spices, then stuffed into warm taco shells and topped with fresh ingredients like crisp lettuce, shredded cheese
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup water
- 8 small taco shells corn or flour
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or Mexican blend
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup sour cream optional
- 1/4 cup salsa or hot sauce optional
Instructions
- Cook the Beef
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Aromatics
- Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Season the Beef
- Add salt, black pepper, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne (if using). Stir well to coat the beef evenly.
- Simmer with Sauce
- Pour in the tomato sauce and water, mixing well. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Prepare the Taco Shells
- Warm taco shells in a dry pan or microwave.
- Assemble the Tacos
- Fill each taco shell with the seasoned beef. Top with lettuce, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, and cilantro.
- Add Optional Toppings
- Serve with sour cream, salsa, or hot sauce as desired.
- Enjoy
- Serve immediately with sides like rice, beans, or guacamole.
Notes
- Meat Variations: You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives for a different twist.
- Taco Shells: Hard or soft taco shells both work well. Lightly toasting them enhances their flavor and texture.
- Make It Healthier: Use lean ground beef and serve with whole wheat or corn tortillas for a healthier option.
- Spice Level: Adjust the heat by increasing or decreasing the cayenne pepper or adding jalapeños.
- Topping Ideas: Avocado, guacamole, pickled onions, or crumbled queso fresco make great additions.
- Storage: Store leftover taco meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave before serving.
- Meal Prep: Cook the beef mixture in advance and store separately from the toppings for easy assembly later.