Description
These Crispy Beef Tacos feature seasoned ground beef cooked with onions and garlic, nestled in crunchy baked taco shells and topped with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and cilantro. Perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight meal with an optional kick of jalapeños or hot sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Optional: sliced jalapeños
- Optional: hot sauce
Base
- 10 hard taco shells
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, releasing their flavors—about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and fully cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning mix according to the package instructions. If water is required, add the recommended amount. Let the beef simmer gently in the seasoning, allowing flavors to meld for a few minutes.
- Prepare taco shells: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the hard taco shells on a baking sheet and bake for 5 minutes to enhance crispiness.
- Assemble tacos: Evenly divide the seasoned beef mixture among the baked taco shells, creating a hearty base for your toppings.
- Add fresh toppings: Layer shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheddar cheese over the beef in each taco for fresh texture and flavor contrast.
- Finish with creamy and herbal elements: Add a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top of each taco.
- Optional heat: For those who enjoy spice, add sliced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce to taste.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy the crunchy texture and vibrant flavors while the tacos are fresh and warm.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option.
- To make it gluten-free, ensure the taco seasoning mix and taco shells are certified gluten-free.
- For extra cheesiness, melt the shredded cheddar cheese briefly under the broiler after assembling.
- Customize toppings with avocado slices, sour cream alternatives, or pickled onions.
- Leftover beef mixture can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
