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Classic Ground Beef Tacos

Classic Ground Beef Tacos: Quick Family Favorites in 30 Minutes

Enjoy the deliciousness of Classic Ground Beef Tacos, customizable and ready in just 30 minutes for a perfect family dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 tacos
Course: Beef
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Beef Mixture
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Choose 90% lean for a flavorful yet less greasy filling.
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Soda Helps tenderize the beef; optional.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to dietary needs.
  • 1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil Use this for cooking aromatics; olive oil is a healthier option.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Adds sweetness; can be replaced with shallots.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh or pre-minced for flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Chili Powder Adjust based on your spice tolerance.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Can use coriander as a substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander Mexican oregano works if you’re out.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Regular paprika is a milder alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Fresh oregano can be used in larger quantities.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Omit for milder tacos.
  • 1/2 cup Water Using broth enhances the flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Optional to balance acidity.
  • 2 tablespoons Lime Juice Freshly squeezed is the tastiest choice.
For the Taco Shells
  • 8 shells Taco Shells Choose between crispy or soft.
Optional Toppings
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheese Use your favorite variety.
  • 1 cup Diced Tomatoes Cherry or Roma tomatoes work well.
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream Greek yogurt is a lower-calorie substitute.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro Omit if you’re not a fan.
  • 2 wedges Lime Wedges Essential for an extra zesty finish!

Equipment

  • skillet
  • medium bowl

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a medium bowl, mix the ground beef with baking soda and salt. Allow the mixture to sit for 15 minutes to 1 hour.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped yellow onion and sauté for about 4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
  3. Stir in minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until aromatic.
  4. Add the seasoned ground beef to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes until the meat is no longer pink and starting to brown.
  5. Stir in tomato sauce, water, sugar, and fresh lime juice. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes.
  6. Lower heat to medium-low and cook uncovered for about 10-15 minutes until the mixture thickens.
  7. Spoon the ready beef mixture into your choice of taco shells and set out toppings for customizations.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tacoCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 15gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 250IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Customize spice levels and toppings to suit your taste.

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