Description
This easy and flavorful Ground Beef Tacos recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender, seasoned beef cooked with onions and garlic is simmered in a tomato paste sauce, then served in your choice of soft or crunchy taco shells with your favorite toppings. Ready in just 20 minutes, these tacos bring classic Mexican flavors to your table with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- ½ onion, finely chopped (about ½ cup)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ cup water (or more as needed)
Taco Assembly
- Taco shells (soft or crunchy), as needed
- Taco toppings (choose your favorites, such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, salsa, avocado)
Instructions
- Brown meat: Heat olive oil in a medium-large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 1 minute, breaking up the meat with a spoon as it browns. Then stir in the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and taco seasoning. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and the onion has softened, about 5-8 minutes. If there is excess fat, drain it off before proceeding.
- Add liquids: Reduce the heat to medium. Stir in the tomato paste thoroughly to combine with the meat mixture. Pour in the water and stir well. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the meat nicely.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and serve the taco meat immediately. Spoon the filling into your choice of soft or crunchy taco shells and top with your favorite taco toppings. Enjoy while warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add a squeeze of lime juice or a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro before serving.
- Adjust water quantity as needed to achieve your preferred sauce consistency.
- If you prefer, substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Use gluten-free taco shells to make this recipe gluten-free.
