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Best Classic Ground Beef Tacos
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5 from 27 votes

Best Classic Ground Beef Tacos

These beef tacos are like the ones you grew up on only better, thanks to the homemade taco seasoning.  They're BIG on flavor and seasoned just right. Pile on your favorite toppings or keep it simple. They're scrumptious either way! Make this recipe for your next taco night!
Course Main
Cuisine Mexican
Keyword beef tacos, ground beef tacos
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 5 people
Author April Boller Wright

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef use 80% fat ground beef
  • 1/2 cup diced onions
  • 2 minced garlic cloves
  • 1/2 cup water
  • homemade taco seasoning See notes for link to the recipe
  • salt for taste optional
  • pepper for taste optional

Instructions

  • In a large skillet, over medium high heat, heat the oil. Add the onions and cook until translucent about 5-7 minutes stirring often. Add the garlic cook until the garlic is fragrant about 30 seconds, stirring to prevent garlic from burning. 
  • Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain the beef then return it back to the stove. Add the water, and the taco seasoning *SEE NOTES. 
  • Stir well and cook until the sauce has thickened. Season with salt and pepper if needed. Fill the warmed taco with the ground beef add then add your choice of toppings. *See notes below about warming up your tacos and topping suggestions. 

Video

Notes

 
You can find my homemade taco seasoning HERE.

MICROWAVE HARD TACO SHELLS 

  1. Unwrap the shells and arrange them on a microwave-safe plate, slightly overlapping.
  2. Heat on high for 45 seconds until they are warm. Store any extra taco shells in a food-storage plastic bag or container to keep them fresh.

MICROWAVE  SOFT  TACO SHELLS

To heat your tortillas, take 3-4 at a time and position them on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a lightly damp paper towel, then microwave in 30-second intervals. Once warmed, set them aside until you're ready to serve.

EXTRA FLAVOR BOOST 

Now, if you want to take things up a notch, here are some bonus flavor boosts to consider:
  • Craving some heat? Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes onto the meat for an extra kick.
  • For an added touch of richness, throw in a spoonful of tomato paste along with your sauce. It's like a secret flavor weapon.
  • Swap out regular sour cream for some tangy Mexican crema. Your taste buds will thank you!
  • Top it all off with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and an extra sprinkle of cilantro – it's like a flavor explosion in your mouth!
Recipe was updated on 10/31/2023