Beef Tacos Recipe

A plate of beef tacos filled with ground beef, shredded cheese, lettuce, chopped tomatoes, red onion slices, and greens.

These Ground Beef Tacos are packed full of flavor and so satisfying. This recipe has the perfect blend of spices and fresh ingredients, making it an ideal choice for any taco night. Perfect for a quick dinner or a fun meal with friends, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table.

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Prep Time: 15

Cook Time: 15

Total Time: 30

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Mexican

Keyword: ground beef tacos

Servings:

Calories: 315kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound lean ground beef
2 tablespoons tomato paste
½ cup water

For the taco seasoning:

2 teaspoons chili powder
2 teaspoons cumin
½ teaspoon oregano
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

For serving the tacos:

8 corn tortillas
Lettuce finely chopped
Mexican cheese blend shredded
Tomatoes chopped
Red onion chopped

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

In a small bowl, mix together all the taco seasoning spices. Set aside.
2 teaspoons chili powder, 2 teaspoons cumin, ½ teaspoon oregano, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon or spatula, until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 pound lean ground beef
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the taco seasoning mix, tomato paste, and water to the cooked beef. Stir to combine and continue cooking for 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
2 tablespoons tomato paste, ½ cup water
Remove the beef mixture from heat and keep it warm.
To serve, spoon a generous portion of the seasoned beef mixture into warmed tortillas or taco shells.
8 corn tortillas
Top the tacos with your desired toppings, such as shredded lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, red onion, avocado, or your other favorite toppings.
Lettuce, Mexican cheese blend, Tomatoes, Red onion
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Meat: While ground beef is traditional, you can easily substitute it with ground chicken, turkey, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian option.
Seasoning: Don't shy away from adjusting the taco seasoning to match your taste. More cumin or chili powder can really amp up the flavor.
Cheese: While Mexican cheese blend is recommended, feel free to experiment with other types like cheddar or Monterey Jack.
Extra Heat: If you like your tacos spicy, adding a bit of hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture can kick up the heat.
Keto option: For a low-carb alternative, skip the tortillas and serve the taco filling in lettuce wraps. You'll get all the flavor without the carbs!

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Cool and Airtight: Allow the cooked taco meat to cool completely before you pack it away in an airtight container.
Separate Components: Store the beef mixture separately from your tortillas and toppings to keep everything fresh.
Refrigerate: Properly stored, the tacos will last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freeze: Cool it down, pack it in airtight containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Quick Reheat: When you're ready to eat, simply reheat the beef in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave. Warm your tortillas separately and assemble your tacos fresh.

Nutrition

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