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The Best Taco Recipe

A flavorful and easy-to-make ground beef taco recipe that delivers bold Mexican-inspired flavors, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce or salsa
  • 12 small corn or flour tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
  • 1 medium tomato, diced
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
  2. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes, then drain any excess fat.
  4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to bloom the spices.
  5. Add tomato sauce or salsa, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Meanwhile, warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable.
  7. Assemble tacos: spoon beef filling into each tortilla, then top with lettuce, cheese, tomato, sour cream, and cilantro.
  8. Squeeze lime over tacos just before serving.
  9. Serve immediately and enjoy with your favorite hot sauce or salsa.

Notes

  • Substitute ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
  • For a taco night, offer toppings like pickled jalapeños, diced avocado, chopped onion, or hot sauce.
  • For crisp tacos, lightly brush tortillas with oil and bake at 400 °F for 5–7 minutes until golden.
  • Make filling ahead of time and reheat gently.
  • Store leftovers in separate containers – meat, tortillas, toppings – for freshness.

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