A quick and easy recipe for flavorful beef tacos featuring seasoned ground beef, fresh toppings, and crispy taco shells. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Author:Sandra
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:25 minutes
Yield:8 servings
Category:Main Course
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Mexican
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
1 packet taco seasoning
2/3 cup water
Toppings and Serving
8 taco shells
Lettuce, shredded, as needed
Tomato, diced, as needed
Cheddar cheese, shredded, as needed
Salsa, for serving, as needed
Instructions
Brown the beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef together with the chopped onion until the beef is fully browned and the onion is soft, about 7-8 minutes. Drain excess fat from the skillet.
Season the beef: Stir in the packet of taco seasoning and 2/3 cup water into the skillet with the beef and onion. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the beef.
Warm the taco shells: While the beef mixture simmers, heat the taco shells according to the package instructions, usually by baking in the oven for 5 minutes or microwaving for about 30 seconds, until warm and crisp.
Assemble the tacos: Spoon the seasoned beef mixture evenly into each taco shell. Top each filled shell with shredded lettuce, diced tomato, shredded cheddar cheese, and salsa to taste.
Serve and enjoy: Serve the beef tacos immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
Use low-fat ground beef or lean turkey as a healthier alternative.
If you prefer softer tacos, wrap the shells in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20 seconds instead of baking.
Customize toppings with sour cream, avocado, or cilantro as desired.
To save time, use pre-chopped onions and pre-shredded cheese.