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Beef Tacos

Quick and easy beef tacos made with ground beef, simple spices, and your favorite toppings. Perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 pound ground beef I use 80/20 for juicy results
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce or salsa if you are feeling bold
  • 8 taco shells hard or soft, whatever you prefer
  • Your favorite toppings: shredded lettuce diced tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, avocado, or hot sauce

Method
 

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked, breaking up the meat as it cooks.
  2. Drain excess fat if needed, leaving a small amount for flavor.
  3. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and slightly golden.
  4. Stir in the garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to release the aromas of the spices.
  5. Pour in the tomato sauce and stir well. Simmer for 5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
  6. While the beef mixture simmers, warm the taco shells in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  7. Assemble the tacos by spooning the beef mixture into the warmed shells and topping with your favorite toppings.

Notes

Feel free to customize the tacos with different toppings or swap the tomato sauce for salsa. The beef filling can be made ahead and stored in the fridge or freezer for even quicker meals.