Beef Tacos with Seasoning (Printable)
Juicy beef in warm tortillas with a zesty seasoning blend and fresh toppings for a flavorful meal.
# Ingredient List:
→ Beef
01 - 1.1 lbs ground beef (80/20 preferred)
→ Homemade Taco Seasoning
02 - 1 tbsp chili powder
03 - 1 tsp ground cumin
04 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
05 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
06 - 1/2 tsp onion powder
07 - 1/2 tsp dried oregano
08 - 1/2 tsp salt
09 - 1/4 tsp black pepper
10 - 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
→ Sauce & Liquids
11 - 1/4 cup water
12 - 1 tbsp tomato paste
→ Tortillas & Toppings
13 - 8 small corn or flour tortillas, warmed
14 - 1 cup shredded lettuce
15 - 1 cup diced tomatoes
16 - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
17 - 1/4 cup diced red onion
18 - 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
19 - Lime wedges, for serving
# Steps:
01 - Combine all seasoning ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.
02 - Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, stirring and breaking apart, until browned and no longer pink, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Drain excess fat as needed.
03 - Add tomato paste and the prepared seasoning mixture to the beef, stirring to evenly coat.
04 - Pour in water and reduce heat to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens and flavors meld.
05 - Heat tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until soft and pliable.
06 - Divide the seasoned beef among the tortillas and top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, red onion, and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- It feels like sharing a secret – how simple spices can transform ground beef into a fiesta of flavors
- This seasoning blend quickly became my go-to because it’s customizable and packs just the right amount of heat
02 -
- Draining the fat after browning the beef prevents soggy tacos and keeps flavors vibrant
- Adjusting the red pepper flakes lets you tailor heat so everyone at the table is happy
03 -
- Use fresh spices whenever possible – they’re the heart of this seasoning’s flavor impact
- Simmering just enough prevents the beef from drying out and keeps everything juicy