If you’re craving a quick, flavorful dinner, these Beef Tacos are your answer. With a homemade seasoning and a simple technique to enhance flavor, this recipe delivers juicy, tasty tacos every time—all in under 30 minutes.
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Servings: 4
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy—ready in less than 30 minutes.
- Packed with flavor from a homemade taco seasoning blend.
- Customizable with your favorite toppings.
- Budget-friendly and perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (70-80% lean*): Provides moist, flavorful meat. For leaner options, consider turkey.
- 1 tbsp chili powder: Adds warmth and depth. A hint of paprika can substitute if needed.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances overall flavors. Adjust to taste.
- ¾ tsp cumin: Gives an earthy, slightly spicy note essential to taco flavors.
- ½ tsp dried Mexican oregano: Adds an herbal undertone. Regular oregano works in a pinch.
- ¼ tsp granulated garlic: Infuses a mild garlic flavor. Garlic powder can be used alternatively.
- ¼ tsp granulated onion: Complements the garlic with a subdued onion taste.
- ½ cup tomato sauce: Helps stew the meat, creating juicy taco filling.
- 8 white corn tortillas: Authentic base for tacos. Flour tortillas are an alternative.
- ½ cup oil (avocado or vegetable): Used for frying tortillas, providing crispness.
How to Make It
Step 1: Cook Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks, ensuring even browning. Continue until the beef is fully cooked and browned with no pink remaining.
Step 2: Drain Excess Fat
Drain any excess grease to prevent a greasy final dish. Return the skillet to the stove on low heat, ready for seasoning.
Step 3: Season the Beef
Add ½ cup of tomato sauce and your homemade seasoning mix. Stir until all meat is thoroughly coated. This step ensures every bite is flavored.
Step 4: Simmer
Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and thicken slightly for better texture.
Step 5: Fry Tortillas
In a separate skillet, heat ½ cup oil over medium-high heat. Check oil readiness with a tortilla edge; it should sizzle immediately. Fry each tortilla for about 30 seconds per side until they achieve a light golden color.
Step 6: Shape Tortillas
Lift tortillas out of the oil and let them drain on paper towels. Use tongs to fold them into taco shapes while warm, preparing them to hold the seasoned beef without breaking.
Step 7: Fill and Serve
Fill the tacos with the beef mixture and your choice of toppings. Serve promptly for optimal texture and taste.
Recipe FAQs
What can I use in place of ground beef?
For a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken work well. Just note that you may need to adjust seasoning slightly as these meats can be less flavorful than beef.
Can I bake the tortillas instead of frying?
Yes, to bake, lightly oil each tortilla, then prop them using oven-safe racks to maintain shape and bake at 375°F until crisp, about 8-10 minutes.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove. Keep tortillas separate to prevent them from becoming soggy.
