Name: Ground Beef Tacos Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 Tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ¼ teaspoon dried oregano; ¼ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon onion powder; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); ½ Tablespoon olive or avocado oil; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lb ground beef (90/10 recommended); 2 Tablespoons beef broth or water (more if needed); 2 Tablespoons tomato paste; 2 teaspoons lime juice; Lime wedges; Small soft corn or flour tortillas; Shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese; Shredded lettuce; Diced tomatoes; Chopped cilantro; Diced red onion; Sour cream; Avocado chunks or guacamole; Salsa; Hot sauce

Ingredients

1 Tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon kosher salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

¼ teaspoon dried oregano

¼ teaspoon garlic powder

¼ teaspoon onion powder

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

½ Tablespoon olive or avocado oil

1 medium yellow onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 lb ground beef (90/10 recommended)

2 Tablespoons beef broth or water (plus more if needed)

2 Tablespoons tomato paste

2 teaspoons lime juice

Lime wedges, for serving

Small soft corn or flour tortillas

Shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican cheese

Shredded lettuce

Diced tomatoes

Chopped cilantro

Diced red onion

Sour cream

Avocado chunks or guacamole

Salsa

Hot sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Make the taco seasoning by combining chili powder, cumin, kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using) in a small bowl. Set aside.

Step 2: Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 5 to 6 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Add the ground beef to the skillet, cooking for about 5 minutes until fully browned. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary, especially if using fattier beef.

Step 4: Sprinkle the prepared seasoning over the beef mixture and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, stirring well to coat the meat evenly.

Step 5: Stir in the beef broth (or water), tomato paste, and lime juice. Allow the mixture to simmer for 1 to 2 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 6: While the beef simmers, warm the tortillas by heating them in a dry skillet over medium-high heat or wrapping them in foil and heating in a 350°F oven for 5 to 10 minutes.

Step 7: Assemble your tacos by spooning the beef mixture onto the warmed tortillas and adding your favorite toppings such as cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, cilantro, onions, sour cream, avocado, salsa, and hot sauce. Serve with lime wedges.

Tips & Variations

Use lean ground beef (90/10 or leaner) to reduce the need to drain fat.

For a smoky flavor, try adding a small amount of chipotle powder or smoked paprika.

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option.

Warm tortillas wrapped in a damp towel in the microwave for 30 seconds to keep them soft and pliable.

Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or corn for more texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I make the taco meat ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat it gently before serving to keep it flavorful and moist.

What toppings work best with ground beef tacos?

Classic toppings include shredded cheese, lettuce, diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, sour cream, avocado or guacamole, salsa, and hot sauce. Feel free to customize based on your preferences.