Go Back Email Link
perfectly seasoned ground beef tacos recipe - Perfectly Seasoned Ground Beef Tacos served in a white bowl overhead view
Chloe

Perfectly Seasoned Ground Beef Tacos

perfectly seasoned ground beef tacos recipe made easy at home. Quick, flavor-packed ground beef tacos that taste like your favorite taquería, ready in under 3
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 378
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

For the Beef
  • 1 lb lean ground beef (85/15) or 90/10 for less fat
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp dried oregano preferably Mexican oregano
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional, adjust to heat preference
  • 1/2 tsp salt plus more to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 1/3 cup water or low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil if using lean beef
For Serving
  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas warmed
  • 1 cup shredded iceberg or romaine lettuce
  • 1 cup diced ripe tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
  • 1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 lime cut into wedges

Method
 

  1. In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. If using lean beef (90/10 or leaner), add 1 tablespoon oil. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until no longer pink and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 160°F (71°C), about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Carefully drain any excess fat from the skillet, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Return skillet to heat, sprinkle the seasoning blend evenly over the beef, and pour in the water or broth. Stir well to combine and bring to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until the liquid is mostly absorbed and the beef is deeply coated. Taste and adjust salt.
  4. While the beef simmers, warm tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side, or wrap in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds. Keep them wrapped in a clean kitchen towel to stay warm.
  5. Spoon the seasoned beef into the center of each warm tortilla. Top generously with lettuce, tomato, cheese, cilantro, and a drizzle of sour cream. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.