Description
Mexican ground beef tacos blend spicy seasoned meat with crunchy shells for a classic dinner favorite. Crisp tortillas and zesty toppings make you crave another bite of this irresistible meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (454 g) ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
- 1 cup (240 ml) shredded cheese
- 1 cup (240 ml) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup (240 ml) shredded lettuce
- 8–10 crispy taco shells
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) sour cream (optional)
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, carefully draining any accumulated fat to ensure a crisp, lean filling.
- Sprinkle taco seasoning across the meat, stirring thoroughly to distribute evenly and allow spices to penetrate deeply during a 5-minute simmer.
- While meat develops flavor, warm taco shells in the oven at 350°F for maximum crispness and structural integrity.
- Construct each taco by layering the seasoned beef as a foundational base, then strategically arrange crisp lettuce shreds for textural contrast.
- Cascade diced tomatoes across the lettuce, ensuring even distribution for balanced flavor in every bite.
- Generously sprinkle shredded cheese to create a melting layer that binds the filling components together.
- Crown the taco with a dollop of cool, creamy sour cream to balance the warm, spiced meat and provide a luxurious finishing touch.
- Serve immediately while shells remain crunchy and filling remains piping hot, maximizing the sensory experience of this classic dish.
Notes
- Lean ground beef works best, reducing excess fat and creating a cleaner taco filling.
- Pat meat dry before cooking to ensure better browning and crispier texture.
- Customize seasoning by mixing your own blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder for deeper flavor.
- Drain beef thoroughly to prevent soggy taco shells and maintain crispiness.
- Consider using turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for lighter, healthier options.
- Warm taco shells in the oven for extra crispness instead of microwave heating.
- Add fresh cilantro or jalapeños for an extra flavor boost and authentic Mexican touch.
- Prep toppings ahead of time for quick assembly and stress-free meal preparation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 460 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg