Ingredients
Scale
For the Ground Beef Filling
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for the best balance of flavor and juiciness)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional if using leaner beef)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste (enhances depth of flavor)
- ½ cup beef broth or water (helps blend the spices evenly and keeps the meat moist)
Homemade Taco Seasoning
- 1 ½ tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Taco Toppings (Customizable)
- 10 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce (adds crunch and freshness)
- ½ cup diced tomatoes (adds juiciness and bright flavor)
- ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
- ¼ cup sour cream (for a creamy, tangy contrast)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (adds a fresh, herby kick)
- 1 avocado, sliced (for creaminess and richness)
- ½ cup salsa or pico de gallo (for a burst of zesty flavor)
- Lime wedges (essential for that final bright, citrusy touch)
Instructions
1. Cook the Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil if using lean beef.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned, stirring occasionally.
2. Season the Beef
- If needed, drain excess grease from the pan to prevent greasy tacos.
- Stir in the tomato paste, cooking for 1 minute to develop flavor.
- Sprinkle in the homemade taco seasoning, stirring well to coat the beef evenly.
- Pour in beef broth (or water) and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
3. Prepare the Tortillas
- For soft tortillas: Warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds per side.
- For crispy taco shells: Bake store-bought taco shells at 375°F for 5-7 minutes or fry tortillas in oil until crisp.
4. Assemble the Tacos
- Fill each tortilla with a generous spoonful of seasoned beef.
- Add toppings like lettuce, cheese, tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro.
- Finish with sour cream, salsa, and a squeeze of fresh lime for maximum flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos per person
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g