Description
These Ground Beef Tacos are a weeknight favorite! Juicy, seasoned beef tucked into warm tortillas and topped with all your favorite fixings — they’re simple, delicious, and always a hit with the whole family. Ready in under 30 minutes, they’re great for busy nights or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients
For the taco meat:
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1 lb ground beef (85-90% lean)
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1 tablespoon olive oil (if using very lean beef)
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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2 teaspoons chili powder
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1 teaspoon cumin
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1/2 teaspoon paprika
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1/2 teaspoon oregano
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1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1/4 cup tomato sauce or 2 tablespoons tomato paste + splash of water
To serve:
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8 small tortillas (corn or flour)
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Shredded lettuce
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Diced tomatoes
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Shredded cheese
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Sour cream or Greek yogurt
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Diced avocado or guacamole
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Fresh cilantro, lime wedges
Instructions
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Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil (if needed), then sauté the onion for 3–4 minutes until soft.
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Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
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Add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 6–8 minutes). Drain excess grease if needed.
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Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
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Add tomato sauce or tomato paste + a splash of water. Stir to combine and simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Warm the tortillas in a dry pan, microwave, or oven.
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Fill each tortilla with the beef mixture and top with your favorite toppings.
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Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
Notes
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Swap beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian version.
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Meal prep tip: Cook the taco meat ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
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Leftover taco meat is great for burrito bowls, quesadillas, or nachos.