Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for classic ground beef tacos, a favorite for any taco night!
Ground Beef Tacos Recipe
Ingredients:
- For the Beef:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (1 oz/28g) taco seasoning mix (or homemade mix: 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon oregano, 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, and salt to taste)
- 1/4 cup water or beef broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Tacos:
- 8-10 small corn or flour tortillas
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Shredded cheese (cheddar or a Mexican blend)
- Sour cream
- Sliced avocado or guacamole
- Salsa or hot sauce
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and the garlic is fragrant.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Season the Beef:
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning mix over the beef and stir to coat the meat evenly.
- Pour in the water or beef broth, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the beef is well-coated with the seasoning.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Warm the Tortillas:
- While the beef is cooking, warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, or until they are pliable and lightly toasted.
- Alternatively, you can wrap the tortillas in foil and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes.
- Assemble the Tacos:
- Fill each warm tortilla with a scoop of the seasoned ground beef.
- Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced avocado or guacamole, and salsa or hot sauce.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice if desired.
- Serve:
- Serve the tacos immediately with additional lime wedges on the side.
Optional Variations:
- Chicken Tacos: Substitute the ground beef with shredded cooked chicken, and use the same seasoning.
- Fish Tacos: Use grilled or pan-seared fish (like tilapia or cod) instead of beef, and add a slaw made from shredded cabbage and lime juice.
- Vegetarian Tacos: Replace the meat with seasoned black beans, pinto beans, or roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.
Enjoy your tacos with your favorite toppings and sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or chips and salsa!