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ultimate ground beef tacos recipe - Ultimate Ground Beef Tacos served in a white bowl overhead view
Chloe

Ultimate Ground Beef Tacos

ultimate ground beef tacos recipe made easy at home. Quick, savory, and loaded with fresh toppings—these ground beef tacos bring fiesta flair to any weeknight
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 lb ground beef (85% lean) preferably not too lean for flavor
  • 2 tbsp taco seasoning store-bought or homemade blend
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 8 taco shells or soft flour tortillas warmed before serving
Toppings
  • 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
  • 1 cup diced Roma tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup salsa mild or hot
  • 1 lime cut into wedges

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until no pink remains and internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), about 5–7 minutes. Carefully drain excess fat.
  2. Reduce heat to medium. Sprinkle taco seasoning evenly over the beef, add water, and stir well. Simmer until the liquid reduces and the beef is nicely coated, about 3–4 minutes.
  3. While the beef rests, warm taco shells according to package directions or heat tortillas in a dry skillet until pliable and slightly charred.
  4. Spoon the seasoned beef into each shell, then top generously with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, and salsa. Serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side.