Description
These Crispy Ground Beef Tacos combine seasoned, savory ground beef with homemade crispy corn tortilla shells. Topped with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and cilantro, these tacos offer a delightful blend of textures and flavors perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Filling
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup water
Taco Shells and Toppings
- 10 small corn tortillas
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release the aroma.
- Brown Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for 7-9 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease to reduce fat.
- Season the Beef: Stir in chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat the meat with spices.
- Add Tomato Sauce and Simmer: Pour in the tomato sauce and water, stirring to combine. Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens.
- Fry the Tortillas: Meanwhile, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place one corn tortilla into the hot oil and fry for about 30 seconds. Using tongs, fold the tortilla in half and continue frying each side until crispy and golden brown, approximately 30-60 seconds per side. Drain fried shells on paper towels.
- Assemble Tacos: Fill each crispy taco shell with the seasoned ground beef mixture. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for brightness.
Notes
- To save time, pre-made taco shells can be used instead of frying your own tortillas.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a little shredded cheese inside the warm taco shell immediately after frying.
