Ground beef tacos are a staple for quick and delicious meals. They are made with seasoned beef, fresh vegetables, and crunchy or soft taco shells, creating a satisfying dish that works perfectly for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prep. This recipe is designed to be simple yet flavorful, using everyday ingredients that you likely already have at home.
What makes ground beef tacos so popular is how versatile and customizable they are. You can keep them classic with lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese, or add extra toppings like salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for even more flavor. In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a meal that’s both filling and crowd-pleasing, with minimal effort in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Tacos Recipe
- Quick preparation: The entire recipe comes together in about 25 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.
- Easy ingredients: Requires only basic items such as ground beef, onions, taco seasoning, and fresh toppings.
- Customizable flavors: You can adjust the seasoning to your taste and add any toppings you enjoy, from shredded cheese to spicy salsa.
- Family-friendly: Everyone can build their own taco, which makes it fun and appealing for both kids and adults.
- Budget-friendly: Ground beef and taco shells are affordable, making this a cost-effective meal without sacrificing flavor.
- Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s taco night at home or a small dinner party, these tacos are always a hit.
Ingredients Needed
To prepare these flavorful ground beef tacos, you’ll need fresh and simple ingredients that balance seasoning, texture, and toppings.
- 1 lb ground beef – Use 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for the best balance of flavor and tenderness.
- 1 medium onion, diced – Adds a savory depth and sweetness to the beef.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced – Enhances the seasoning with bold flavor.
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning – Store-bought or homemade; adds a classic taco flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Helps bring out the flavors of the beef and vegetables.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a mild spice note.
- 8 taco shells – Hard taco shells for a crispy bite or soft tortillas for a tender option.
- 1 cup shredded lettuce – Adds crunch and freshness.
- 1 cup diced tomatoes – Juicy and refreshing, balancing the rich beef.
- 1 cup shredded cheese – Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend all work well.
- Salsa and sour cream (optional) – Great for extra creaminess and spice.
- Fresh cilantro (optional) – A fresh garnish that complements the flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your homemade ground beef tacos:
- Cook the ground beef:
Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 5–6 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until it is browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat if needed. - Add onion and garlic:
Stir in the diced onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning. - Season the beef:
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef mixture. Add the salt, pepper, and 2–3 tablespoons of water to help the seasoning coat the beef evenly. Stir and let it simmer for 2 minutes until the flavors blend and the liquid slightly reduces. - Warm the taco shells:
While the beef simmers, prepare the taco shells. For crispy shells, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes. For soft tortillas, heat each side in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds. - Assemble the tacos:
Spoon the seasoned beef mixture into the taco shells. Add shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese on top. - Add toppings and serve:
Finish with optional toppings such as salsa, sour cream, and cilantro. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Adjust spice level by adding chili powder or jalapeños.
- Soft tortillas can be used instead of hard shells.
- Toppings can be customized to your preference.
Homemade Ground Beef Tacos Recipe
Description
These classic ground beef tacos are quick, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Made with seasoned ground beef, fresh toppings, and your choice of taco shells, this recipe is ready in just 25 minutes and is always a family favorite.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook for 5–6 minutes, breaking it apart until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
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Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
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Sprinkle taco seasoning, salt, and pepper over the beef. Add 2–3 tablespoons of water, stir well, and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
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Warm taco shells: (Hard shells: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes. / Soft tortillas: Heat in a skillet for 30 seconds per side).
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Assemble tacos by filling each shell with seasoned beef, then topping with lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese.
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Add optional toppings like salsa, sour cream, or cilantro. Serve immediately.
