Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Easy Ground Beef Tacos Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 20 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Sizzling ground beef tacos bring Mexican street-style flavors to home kitchens. Homemade tortillas, fresh toppings, and zesty seasonings create an authentic dining experience you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80% lean)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (optional)
  • 1 oz taco seasoning mix
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup tomato sauce or salsa
  • 1/4 cup water
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 810 soft tortillas or hard taco shells
  • Shredded lettuce
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Shredded cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Sliced jalapenos
  • Diced avocado
  • Chopped cilantro
  • Lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Sauté diced onions and minced garlic in a large skillet over medium heat until translucent and fragrant, approximately 3-4 minutes.
  2. Add ground beef to the pan, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon, and cook until completely browned and no pink remains, about 6-7 minutes.
  3. Sprinkle taco seasoning over the meat, then pour in tomato sauce and water, stirring to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
  4. Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer, allowing flavors to meld and sauce to thicken, for 5-6 minutes while occasionally stirring.
  5. While meat is simmering, warm taco shells in the oven at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until crisp and heated through.
  6. Carefully fill each taco shell with the seasoned beef mixture, ensuring even distribution.
  7. Customize tacos with preferred toppings like shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, chopped lettuce, sour cream, and salsa.
  8. Serve immediately while shells are crisp and meat is hot, accompanied by additional toppings for individual preference.

Notes

  • Drain excess fat from beef to prevent greasy tacos and ensure a cleaner, more concentrated flavor profile.
  • Customize seasoning by making homemade taco mix, controlling salt and spice levels for a personalized taste experience.
  • For a leaner option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives without sacrificing classic taco texture.
  • Add a splash of lime juice at the end of cooking to brighten the meat’s flavor and introduce a fresh, zesty element to the dish.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 330 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 550 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 14 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 20 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg