Intro:
Looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea? These ground beef tacos are a family favorite! Packed with flavor, perfectly seasoned, and ready in under 30 minutes, this taco recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or fun Taco Tuesday dinners.
đź“‹ Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup water
- Taco shells (hard or soft)
Taco Toppings (Optional but Recommended):
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Salsa
- Avocado or guacamole
- Fresh cilantro
🍳 Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet, cook 1 lb of ground beef over medium heat until it starts to brown (about 5–6 minutes).
- Drain any excess grease.
Step 2: Add Onion and Garlic
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Step 3: Season the Meat
- Add the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture.
- Stir well to coat the meat in the spices.
Step 4: Simmer with Water
- Pour in 1/4 cup of water to help the spices blend into a sauce.
- Reduce the heat to low and let simmer for 4–5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
Step 5: Warm the Taco Shells
- While the beef is simmering, warm your taco shells or tortillas according to package instructions (or heat them in a skillet for 30 seconds per side).
Step 6: Assemble the Tacos
- Spoon the seasoned beef into taco shells.
- Top with your favorite ingredients like lettuce, tomato, cheese, sour cream, salsa, and more.
âś… Tips for the Best Ground Beef Tacos:
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease.
- Adjust spice levels to taste — add cayenne for heat or skip paprika for a milder version.
- Double the recipe for meal prep or taco night parties!