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Crispy Ground Beef Tacos


  • Author: emilyharper
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: High Protein

Description

A satisfying, crunchy weeknight meal featuring boldly seasoned ground beef and customizable toppings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 23 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp oregano
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne (optional)
  • 1/2 cup beef or chicken broth (or water)
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste or 2 tbsp diced tomatoes
  • 12 small corn or flour tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, sliced radishes, lime wedges, sour cream or crema, pickled onions, hot sauce

Instructions

  1. Prep your mise en place by dicing the onion, mincing the garlic, shredding the cheese, and setting out your toppings.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Let it sear for 1–2 minutes before stirring.
  3. Add the diced onion when the beef is halfway cooked and sauté until softened.
  4. Drain excess fat if necessary, leaving a bit for flavor.
  5. Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  6. Pour in the tomato paste and broth, scrape up browned bits, and simmer for 3–5 minutes.
  7. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning as needed.
  8. Crisp the tortillas using either the oven or stovetop method.
  9. Fill each crispy shell with the beef mixture and desired toppings.
  10. Serve immediately with lime wedges and enjoy!

Notes

For extra flavor, brown the beef well and serve tacos immediately for the best texture. Set up a taco assembly station for a fun build-your-own experience.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 tacos
  • Calories: 350 per taco
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: tacos, ground beef, weeknight dinner, easy recipe, Mexican food