Description
These Easy Homemade Ground Meat Tacos feature perfectly seasoned ground beef cooked with fresh onions and garlic, served in warm taco shells topped with classic fixings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, and salsa. This quick and flavorful recipe makes a satisfying meal ideal for Taco Tuesday or any busy weeknight.
Ingredients
Meat and Seasoning
- 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- ¼ cup water
Taco Shells
- 8 taco shells or tortillas
Toppings
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Salsa
- Sliced jalapeños
- Chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes, then add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the ground beef: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary to reduce grease.
- Season the meat: Stir in 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning, ½ cup tomato sauce, and ¼ cup water. Mix thoroughly to combine the flavors evenly.
- Simmer: Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the meat is infused with seasoning.
- Warm taco shells: Heat the taco shells or tortillas according to package instructions, typically by warming them in the oven or microwave until soft and pliable.
- Assemble tacos: Spoon the seasoned beef evenly into each taco shell. Top with your preferred toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, salsa, jalapeños, and cilantro.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy your homemade ground meat tacos fresh and hot for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
- Serve alongside Mexican rice, refried beans, or guacamole to create a complete meal.
- Store leftover taco meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
