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Beef Tacos

Beef Tacos
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These easy Beef Tacos are a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Featuring juicy lean ground beef seasoned with a vibrant blend of Mexican spices, these tacos come together effortlessly and can be customized with a variety of fresh toppings for a hand-held delight that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Beef Mixture

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp taco seasoning (chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano blend)
  • 1/4 cup water or broth
  • 1 tbsp cooking oil

For the Tacos

  • 8 soft flour tortillas or crispy corn taco shells
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or queso fresco
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup chopped lettuce
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
  • 1 fresh lime, cut into wedges

Optional Toppings and Variations

  • Diced jalapeños or hot sauce (for spicy tacos)
  • 1/2 cup cooked black beans (for beef and bean tacos)
  • Avocado slices or guacamole
  • Chipotle peppers, corn, cilantro-lime rice (for Tex-Mex style)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beef Mixture: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add oil. Sauté diced onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add lean ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  2. Season the Beef: Sprinkle taco seasoning over the cooked beef and add water or broth. Stir well and let simmer for 3-5 minutes until the mixture thickens and flavors meld.
  3. Warm the Taco Shells: While the beef simmers, warm your taco shells in the oven or on a skillet for 1-2 minutes until pliable and fragrant.
  4. Assemble Your Tacos: Fill each warmed taco shell generously with the seasoned beef mixture. Top with shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, chopped lettuce, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Add any additional toppings or sauces as desired.
  5. Serve Immediately: Serve beef tacos hot to enjoy the best taste and texture. Complement with sides like Mexican rice or refried beans for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Use fresh garlic, onions, and herbs to elevate the flavor.
  • Do not overcook the beef to keep it tender and juicy.
  • Toast taco shells lightly for added crunch.
  • Adjust seasoning to personal taste preferences.
  • Add fresh lime juice just before serving to brighten flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef tacos, easy tacos, Mexican tacos, quick dinner, taco night, ground beef recipes, taco seasoning, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://marysplate.com/beef-tacos/