Classic Ground Beef Tacos

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 25 minutes Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp chili powder

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• ½ cup tomato sauce

• ¼ cup beef broth or water

• 8 small corn or flour tortillas

Recommended Toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, avocado, fresh cilantro, lime wedges

Instructions

1. Cook the beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned (about 5–6 minutes). Drain any excess fat if needed.

2. Add aromatics: Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.

3. Season the meat: Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the beef is evenly coated.

4. Simmer with sauce: Pour in tomato sauce and beef broth. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavorful.

5. Warm tortillas: Heat tortillas in a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side or wrap in foil and warm in the oven.

6. Assemble tacos: Spoon beef mixture onto tortillas and top with your favorite toppings. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Tips for Perfect Tacos

• Extra flavor: Add a splash of lime juice or a pinch of smoked chili powder for depth.

• Cheese melt: Sprinkle shredded cheese on hot beef before adding to tortillas to melt it slightly.

• Meal prep: Cook beef mixture in advance and store in the fridge for up to 3 days; warm before serving.