Classic Ground Beef Tacos

 Classic Ground Beef Tacos

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade, see below)
• 1/4 cup water
• 8 taco shells or small tortillas
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup salsa
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• Olive oil for cooking

Optional Homemade Taco Seasoning:

• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Cook the Ground Beef:

   • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
   • Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is fully cooked and browned, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

2. Season the Beef:

   • If using a packet of taco seasoning, add it to the skillet with 1/4 cup of water. If making your own seasoning, combine all the spices in a small bowl and add them to the skillet with 1/4 cup of water.
   • Stir well to coat the beef evenly with the seasoning. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.

3. Prepare the Taco Shells:

   • While the beef is simmering, warm the taco shells or tortillas according to the package instructions.

4. Assemble the Tacos:

   • Fill each taco shell or tortilla with a portion of the seasoned ground beef.
   • Top with shredded lettuce, shredded cheddar cheese, diced tomatoes, a dollop of sour cream, and a spoonful of salsa.
   • Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.

5. Serve:

   • Serve the tacos immediately, accompanied by additional toppings such as guacamole, jalapeños, or lime wedges if you like.

Enjoy your delicious and easy-to-make ground beef tacos!