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Easy Simple Taco Tuesday Recipe

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A beginner-friendly, quick, and delicious taco recipe featuring seasoned ground beef and fresh toppings, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt to taste (start with 1 tsp)
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 810 small corn or flour tortillas
  • Toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, grated cheddar cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional), chopped fresh cilantro, lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves. Measure out all spices.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat for about 2 minutes.
  3. Add 1 tbsp oil and sautΓ© the chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
  4. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Add ground beef, crumble it into the skillet, and cook for 5-7 minutes until no pink remains, breaking meat into small pieces.
  6. Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper over the beef and stir well to coat evenly.
  7. Stir in tomato paste and pour in 1/2 cup water. Mix and bring to a gentle simmer.
  8. Simmer uncovered for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens and clings to the meat.
  9. Warm tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds per side or wrap in foil and warm in a 350Β°F oven for 10 minutes.
  10. Assemble tacos by spooning seasoned meat into tortillas and topping with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, sour cream or yogurt, cilantro, and a lime wedge.

Notes

Use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter substitute. Warm tortillas just before serving to keep them pliable. Adjust chili powder to taste to control spice level. If meat seems dry, add a splash more water and simmer longer. Avoid overcrowding the pan when browning meat to prevent steaming.

Nutrition

Keywords: taco recipe, easy tacos, beginner taco recipe, ground beef tacos, taco Tuesday, quick dinner, simple tacos