Ground Beef Tacos

Name: Ground Beef Tacos
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion (diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon taco seasoning; 1 cup beef broth; 8 small tortillas; 1 cup shredded lettuce; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 cup shredded cheese; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Indulge in the savory delight of ground beef tacos, a classic dish that brings together bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, these tacos are easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table. With a deliciously seasoned beef filling and your choice of toppings, you can customize each taco to your liking. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that will make your taco night unforgettable!

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon taco seasoning
1 cup beef broth
8 small tortillas
1 cup shredded lettuce
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 cup shredded cheese
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving of ground beef tacos (2 tacos) contains approximately 450 calories, 25g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. This information is based on one serving for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add diced onion and sauté until translucent.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Sprinkle taco seasoning over the beef and stir to combine.
Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer.
Reduce heat and let simmer for 10 minutes until thickened.
While beef is cooking, warm tortillas in a separate skillet or microwave.
Assemble tacos by placing beef mixture on each tortilla.
Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, and cilantro.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Additionally, corn tortillas can replace flour ones for a gluten-free alternative. Feel free to add your favorite toppings, such as avocado or jalapeños, to enhance the flavor.

Serving and Pairings

Serve these delicious tacos with sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad. For drinks, consider pairing them with a chilled Mexican beer or refreshing agua fresca.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover ground beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Ground beef tacos can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Cooking Mistakes

Overcooking the beef can make it tough; cook just until browned.
Using too much seasoning can overpower the dish; start with a little.
Not letting the beef mixture simmer can result in watery tacos.
Skipping the warming of tortillas can lead to a less enjoyable texture.
Forgetting to drain excess fat from ground beef can make the filling greasy.

Helpful Tips

Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
Mix in black beans for added protein and fiber.
Prepare toppings in advance for quick assembly.
Experiment with different seasonings to customize flavors.

FAQs

Can I use a slow cooker for ground beef tacos?

Yes, you can brown the beef first, then transfer it to a slow cooker with seasoning and broth. Cook on low for 4-6 hours for a flavorful filling.

What toppings are best for ground beef tacos?

Popular toppings include shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, guacamole, and fresh cilantro. Customize according to your taste!

How can I make tacos spicy?

Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture or top your tacos with spicy salsa for an extra kick.

Can I make these tacos vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the beef with lentils, black beans, or a meat alternative for a delicious vegetarian version.

What sides go well with tacos?

Mexican rice, corn salad, or refried beans are excellent sides that complement tacos perfectly.

Conclusion

Ground beef tacos are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that can easily be adapted to suit various tastes. With simple ingredients and a quick preparation process, they are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy customizing your tacos with favorite toppings and sides, making each meal unique and satisfying.