Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into a mouthwatering Mexican feast with this foolproof ground beef taco recipe! Whether you're a busy home cook or a taco enthusiast, this simple yet delicious method will have you serving up restaurant-quality tacos in just 15 minutes. Imagine sizzling, perfectly seasoned ground beef nestled in crispy shells, topped with fresh ingredients that will make your family and friends beg for seconds.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 1 serving
Ingredients
- 4 ounces ground beef
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 2 taco shells
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, cheese, salsa
Instructions
- Remove ground beef from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Place a medium skillet over medium-high heat and allow it to warm for approximately 1-2 minutes.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it into small crumbles using a wooden spoon or spatula.
- Cook the ground beef for 5-7 minutes, continuously stirring and breaking down larger pieces, until the meat is no longer pink and has reached an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Drain excess fat from the skillet using a colander or by carefully tilting the pan.
- Return the beef to the skillet and sprinkle taco seasoning over the meat, stirring thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the seasoning to blend and intensify the flavor.
- While the beef is seasoning, warm taco shells in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes until crisp.
- Fill each taco shell with the seasoned ground beef.
- Add optional toppings like chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and salsa as desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade taco.
Tips
- Always use fresh ground beef with a lean-to-fat ratio of 80/20 for the best flavor and texture.
- Ensure your skillet is properly heated before adding beef to achieve a nice, even browning.
- Break up the ground beef into small, uniform crumbles for consistent cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to confirm the beef reaches 160°F for food safety.
- Allow the beef to drain thoroughly to prevent soggy taco shells.
- Toast your taco shells briefly in the oven for extra crispiness.
- Experiment with homemade taco seasoning for a more personalized flavor profile.
- Prep your toppings in advance for quick and easy assembly.
- Serve tacos immediately after filling to maintain shell crispness.
- Don't be afraid to get creative with additional toppings and garnishes!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 75mg
