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Ground Beef Tacos Recipe

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3.8 from 7 reviews

These flavorful Ground Beef Tacos are a quick and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with a blend of spices and savory beef, these tacos come together in just 15 minutes and serve 8 people. Customize with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, lettuce, and pickled jalapenos for a delicious and satisfying Mexican-inspired dinner.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • ½ medium onion, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons beef or chicken broth
  • 8 taco shells (either crunchy or soft)

Seasonings & Spices

  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons cumin
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 2 pinches ground cayenne pepper

Toppings

  • Chopped lettuce
  • Chopped tomatoes
  • Shredded cheese (cheddar, cheddar Jack, Monterey Jack)
  • Pickled jalapenos

Instructions

  1. Brown the ground beef and onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks. About halfway through cooking, add the chopped onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Drain any excess grease to avoid a greasy filling.
  2. Add seasonings and simmer: Reduce the heat to low. Add chili powder, cumin, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, red pepper flakes, ground cayenne pepper, and the beef or chicken broth to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for 4 to 5 minutes to meld the flavors and cook off any raw spice taste.
  3. Assemble the tacos and serve: Evenly divide the seasoned beef mixture into the 8 taco shells. Top each taco with your preferred toppings such as chopped lettuce, tomatoes, shredded cheese, and pickled jalapenos. Serve promptly for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Use either beef or chicken broth depending on your preference for a richer or lighter flavor.
  • Drain excess grease from the beef to keep tacos from becoming too oily.
  • Customize toppings to your liking; avocado, sour cream, or salsa work well too.
  • Soft or crunchy taco shells can be used based on your texture preference.
  • Ground cayenne and red pepper flakes add heat — adjust to your desired spice level.