Description
These Ground Beef Tacos are a quick and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. Made with lean ground beef seasoned with chili powder, cumin, and garlic, simmered in a tomato paste sauce, and served with fresh toppings on warm tortillas, they deliver a classic Mexican-inspired taste in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Meat and Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ cup water
Toppings and Serving
- 8 Corn or flour tortillas
- Lettuce, finely chopped
- Shredded Mexican cheese blend or cheddar cheese
- Tomatoes, chopped
- Red onions, chopped
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring occasionally, until it is evenly browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish lean.
- Add Seasonings and Simmer: Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper over the beef. Stir in the tomato paste and pour in the water. Mix everything thoroughly and continue cooking over medium-low heat, allowing the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld, about 3-5 minutes.
- Assemble and Serve: Warm the tortillas as desired, then spoon the flavorful beef mixture onto each tortilla. Top with finely chopped lettuce, tomatoes, shredded cheese, and chopped red onions or any other preferred toppings. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
- For spicier tacos, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes during seasoning.
- To make it gluten-free, opt for corn tortillas.
- Additional toppings like sour cream, salsa, or avocado can enhance flavor and texture.
- Leftover beef mixture can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
