These Classic Beef Tacos are the weeknight dinner everyone asks for again and again. Boldly seasoned ground beef simmered with tomatoes and a homemade spice blend, loaded into warm tortillas and piled high with fresh toppings. Ready in just 25 minutes, they're endlessly customizable and guaranteed to please every person at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup tomato sauce or salsa
- 2 tablespoons water
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas, warmed
- Toppings: shredded cheese, shredded lettuce, diced tomato, sour cream, salsa, lime wedges, fresh cilantro
Instructions
1
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2
Add the ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned all over. Drain any excess fat.
3
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices into the meat.
4
Add the tomato sauce and water. Stir to combine and simmer for 3–4 minutes until the liquid reduces and the beef mixture is saucy but not watery. Taste and adjust seasoning.
5
Warm the tortillas — wrap in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds, or heat one at a time in a dry skillet for 20 seconds per side.
6
Spoon the beef mixture into the warm tortillas. Set out all your toppings and let everyone build their own. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
💡 Tip Make the beef filling up to 3 days ahead and store in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to loosen it back up — taco night becomes even faster.
Notes
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version
- Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option — char them lightly in a dry skillet for extra flavor
- Leftovers make great taco bowls over rice the next day
- Pairs well with Classic Guacamole for the full taco night experience
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