Description
Classic Beef Tacos are a quick and delicious Mexican-inspired meal featuring seasoned ground beef served in crispy taco shells topped with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and shredded cheddar cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/4 cup water (approximate, for simmering)
Toppings & Shells
- 12 taco shells
- Shredded lettuce, to taste
- Diced tomatoes, to taste
- Shredded cheddar cheese, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook until the beef is fully browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
- Drain Excess Fat: Carefully drain any excess fat from the skillet to reduce greasiness and improve the flavor.
- Add Seasoning: Return the skillet to the stove, stir in the taco seasoning packet along with approximately 1/4 cup of water, and mix well to combine with the beef.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to medium-low and let the seasoned beef mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and flavors meld.
- Assemble Tacos: Warm the taco shells according to package instructions. Spoon the beef mixture into each shell, then top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheddar cheese as desired.
Notes
- Serve with sour cream or salsa to add extra flavor and moisture.
- For a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce.
- Vegetarian option: substitute ground beef with seasoned cooked lentils or plant-based meat substitute.
