Description
Savor the authentic flavors of Classic Beef Tacos with perfectly seasoned ground beef and all the traditional toppings. This easy recipe combines juicy, spiced beef, fresh lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheddar, sour cream, salsa, and crisp taco shells to make a perfect Mexican-inspired meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Beef Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 2 diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup salsa
Others
- 8 taco shells
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula as it browns, for about 5-7 minutes until fully cooked.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Continue cooking and stirring until the onions become translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add Taco Seasoning: Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef mixture. Add a splash of water as per the seasoning packet instructions. Stir well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the seasoning is fully absorbed into the beef.
- Season to Taste: Season the beef with salt and black pepper according to your preference. Mix thoroughly.
- Prepare Toppings: While the beef cooks, shred the lettuce, dice the tomatoes, and place the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and salsa into serving bowls.
- Heat Taco Shells: Warm the taco shells by following the package directions, usually in the oven or microwave, until crispy and hot.
- Assemble Tacos: Place a scoop of the seasoned beef into each taco shell. Top with shredded cheddar, lettuce, diced tomatoes, a dollop of sour cream, and salsa.
- Serve: Serve the tacos immediately while hot to enjoy the full flavor and texture contrast.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with Mexican blend cheese if preferred.
- For spicier tacos, add jalapeños or hot sauce according to taste.
- Taco shells can be replaced with soft tortillas for a different texture.
- Leftover beef mixture can be refrigerated up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
