Why Make This Recipe
Ground beef tacos are a favorite for many people because they are simple, tasty, and fun to prepare. They bring the flavors of Mexico right to your kitchen and can easily be customized with your favorite toppings. Plus, they are perfect for family gatherings, parties, or a quick weekday dinner. Everyone loves tacos, and making them at home is a great way to enjoy this classic dish in your style.
How to Make Ground Beef Tacos
Ingredients:
- 2 lb ground beef
- 1 chopped onion
- 2 TBSP minced garlic
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp cayenne
- 4 tsp chili powder
- 2 tsp cumin
- 2 tsp dried cilantro
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- White corn tortillas
- 1 tbsp oil
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Taco toppings (sour cream, Pico de Gallo, taco sauce, shredded lettuce)
Directions:
- Add ground beef and chopped onion to a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook until beef is browned and drain excess grease.
- Add minced garlic, salt, pepper, cayenne, chili powder, cumin, cilantro, and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes until the liquid reduces.
- In a separate pan, heat oil over medium heat. Lay out tortillas, top with shredded Monterey Jack cheese and spoonfuls of taco meat.
- Fold tortillas and cook on both sides until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels and top with your favorite toppings before serving.
How to Serve Ground Beef Tacos
Serve your ground beef tacos hot, immediately after cooking. You can place all your taco toppings like sour cream, Pico de Gallo, taco sauce, and shredded lettuce on the side, allowing everyone to build their own perfect taco. This makes for a fun and interactive meal!
How to Store Ground Beef Tacos
If you have leftovers, you can store the taco meat in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The tortillas should be kept separately to avoid becoming soggy. Reheat the meat on the stove or in the microwave before serving again.
Tips to Make Ground Beef Tacos
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease.
- Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste; add more cayenne for heat or more chili powder for richer flavor.
- For an extra twist, you can add some black beans or corn to the meat mixture for added texture and nutrition.
Variation
You can switch up the protein by using ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Additionally, try using different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a unique flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a taco seasoning mix instead?
Yes, you can use a taco seasoning mix if you’re short on time. Just follow the package directions and adjust the spices accordingly.
Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
While tacos are best served fresh, you can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and heat it up when you’re ready to serve.
What can I use instead of corn tortillas?
If you prefer, you can use flour tortillas or lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
Ground Beef Tacos
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lb ground beef Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease.
- 1 chopped onion
- 2 TBSP minced garlic
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp cayenne Adjust for heat preference.
- 4 tsp chili powder Adjust for richer flavor.
- 2 tsp cumin
- 2 tsp dried cilantro
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- White corn tortillas Can be substituted with flour tortillas or lettuce wraps.
- 1 tbsp oil For frying tortillas.
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese Can be replaced with cheddar or pepper jack.
- Taco toppings (sour cream, Pico de Gallo, taco sauce, shredded lettuce) Customize as desired.
Instructions
Preparation
- Add ground beef and chopped onion to a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook until beef is browned and drain excess grease.
- Add minced garlic, salt, pepper, cayenne, chili powder, cumin, cilantro, and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes until the liquid reduces.
Cook the Tacos
- In a separate pan, heat oil over medium heat. Lay out tortillas, top with shredded Monterey Jack cheese and spoonfuls of taco meat.
- Fold tortillas and cook on both sides until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels and top with your favorite toppings before serving.