These ground beef tacos are a family favorite! They are quick to make, filled with tasty beef, and topped with all your favorite goodies like cheese, lettuce, and salsa.
What’s not to love? I often make a big batch and let everyone build their own tacos. It’s messy, it’s fun, and there’s always a little competition over who makes the best one! 🌮😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef for a better texture and less greasiness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes. You can also use plant-based ground meat if you’re going for a vegetarian option.
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought taco seasoning is convenient, but if you prefer, you can make your own using spices like chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. This way, you control the flavor! If you’re low on spices, a simple dash of salt and pepper can manage too.
Taco Shells: Whether you prefer hard or soft taco shells is up to you! Corn tortillas work great for soft tacos. If gluten is a concern, corn tortillas or lettuce wraps serve as excellent alternatives.
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to experiment! Monterey Jack or Queso Blanco add lovely creaminess. Vegan cheese is another option for plant-based diets!
How Can I Make Sure My Ground Beef is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef may seem simple, but there are a few steps to ensure it turns out delicious and not dry. First, make sure to cook your beef over medium heat. This allows it to brown evenly.
- Use a spatula to break the beef into small pieces as it cooks. This helps it cook faster and more evenly.
- Always drain the excess fat after cooking. If too much fat remains, it can make your tacos greasy!
- Don’t forget to season it well with salt and pepper after adding the taco seasoning. A little taste test goes a long way in making sure the flavors pop!
How to Make The Best Ground Beef Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1/4 cup water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 taco shells (hard or soft as preferred)
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1/2 cup guacamole (for serving)
- 1/2 cup salsa (for serving)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Pickled onions (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This taco recipe will take you about 20 minutes from start to finish! It includes around 10 minutes for prep and cooking, plus a few extra minutes for getting all your toppings ready. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a medium skillet, heat the skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it, breaking it apart with a spatula. Keep cooking until it’s all browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off to keep your tacos from getting greasy.
2. Season the Beef:
Add the taco seasoning and water into your skillet with the cooked beef. Stir everything together to ensure the seasoning is mixed well with the meat. Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly. Don’t forget to taste it and add salt and pepper if needed!
3. Prepare the Toppings:
While the beef cooks, it’s time to get your taco toppings ready! Chop the lettuce, dice up the tomatoes, and shred your cheese. This way, everything is fresh and ready to go when it’s time to assemble your tacos.
4. Heat the Taco Shells:
Follow the instructions on your taco shell package to heat them up. If you’re using hard shells, you can pop them in the oven. For soft tortillas, you can warm them in a skillet for a few seconds on each side. This will make them even tastier!
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Once everything is ready, fill each taco shell generously with the seasoned ground beef. Don’t be shy—more filling makes for better tacos!
6. Add the Toppings:
Top each taco with a handful of shredded lettuce, a sprinkle of diced tomatoes, and a generous amount of shredded cheese. If you love cilantro, go ahead and add some to your tacos!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your tacos with guacamole, salsa, and lime wedges on the side. If you’re using pickled onions, add those for a fun extra flavor. Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious ground beef tacos with family and friends!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef. Just be aware they may cook a little faster, so keep an eye on them. You might also want to adjust the seasoning with an extra pinch of salt or spices to enhance the flavor, as poultry is generally milder than beef.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Taco Seasoning?
No worries! You can make your own taco seasoning using common spices: combine 1 teaspoon each of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika, plus 1/2 teaspoon of oregano and salt. Adjust to taste and feel free to add some cayenne pepper for extra spice!
How Can I Store Leftover Taco Filling?
Store leftover taco filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. It also makes a great filling for burritos or nachos!
What Are Some Good Topping Alternatives?
You can personalize your tacos with various toppings! Consider adding diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, corn, or even black beans. For a creamy twist, sour cream or Greek yogurt also works well, or try crumbled feta for a unique touch!
