Description
Classic Beef Tacos are a quick and flavorful meal featuring seasoned ground beef nestled in warm taco shells, topped with fresh and colorful ingredients like lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese. This recipe is perfect for easy weeknight dinners, family taco nights, or casual gatherings, offering a tasty and satisfying Mexican-inspired dish.
Ingredients
For the Beef:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup water or beef broth
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- 8 taco shells or soft tortillas
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Shredded cheddar or Mexican-blend cheese
- Sour cream
- Salsa or pico de gallo
- Fresh cilantro, optional
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Warm a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil if using, to help brown the meat and develop flavor.
- Cook the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks to ensure even browning.
- Sauté onions: Stir in the finely diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until softened and translucent.
- Add garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning it.
- Season the beef: Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef mixture, then pour in water or beef broth to moisten and help the flavors meld.
- Simmer: Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef evenly.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and season with salt and black pepper as desired.
- Warm taco shells: Prepare taco shells or tortillas according to package instructions, typically warming them in the oven or microwave.
- Assemble tacos: Spoon the seasoned beef into each taco shell and top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, salsa, and fresh cilantro if desired.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy the tacos fresh for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Drain excess grease from the cooked beef before adding seasoning to reduce fat content.
- Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter alternative.
- This recipe is ideal for taco bars and party gatherings due to its customizable toppings.
- Leftover beef mixture can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
