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Quick Ground Beef Tacos Recipe

Quick Ground Beef Tacos Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 8 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Mexican street-style Ground Beef Tacos deliver authentic flavors straight from Mexico’s culinary heart. Quick weeknight dinners become delicious adventures with simple ingredients and bold spices you’ll savor.


Ingredients

Scale

Proteins:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef

Seasoning and Liquid:

  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 0.5 cup (120 milliliters) water

Taco Components and Toppings:

  • 8 taco shells or tortillas
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) shredded lettuce
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) shredded cheese
  • 0.5 cup (120 milliliters) diced tomatoes
  • 0.25 cup (60 milliliters) diced onions
  • Salsa
  • Sour cream
  • Guacamole

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and crumble ground beef into the pan, cooking until no pink remains and meat is thoroughly browned.
  2. Carefully drain off excess grease, returning the beef to the skillet.
  3. Sprinkle taco seasoning over the meat and pour in recommended water amount, stirring to distribute seasonings evenly.
  4. Reduce heat and allow mixture to simmer for approximately 5 minutes, letting flavors meld and sauce thicken.
  5. While meat simmers, prepare taco shells or tortillas according to package directions, typically warming in oven or microwave until slightly crisp or pliable.
  6. Create individual tacos by layering ground beef as the base, then generously top with fresh chopped lettuce, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, and finely minced onions.
  7. Customize further with optional garnishes like sour cream, salsa, guacamole, or hot sauce to enhance flavor profile.
  8. Serve immediately while meat and shells remain warm, presenting on a platter for family-style dining or individual plates.

Notes

  • Drain beef thoroughly to prevent greasy tacos and ensure a crisp texture.
  • Experiment with lean ground beef or turkey for a healthier protein option that still delivers rich flavor.
  • Customize seasoning by mixing homemade spice blend for more authentic and personalized taste profile.
  • Make tacos gluten-free by using corn tortillas and checking seasoning packet ingredients for potential wheat contamination.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 290 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 520 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 17 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg