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Quick Flavorful Beef Tacos

quick flavorful beef tacos recipe - featured image

A fast and easy homemade beef tacos recipe ready in just 20 minutes, featuring juicy seasoned ground beef and warm tortillas. Perfect for busy weeknights and casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (can substitute with avocado oil)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked if available)
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) beef broth or water
  • 810 small corn or flour tortillas, warmed
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges for serving
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, sour cream, guacamole

Instructions

  1. Finely chop one medium onion and mince two garlic cloves (about 5 minutes).
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering (about 1 minute).
  3. Add chopped onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Add minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds, being careful not to burn.
  4. Add 1 lb ground beef to the pan. Break it apart with a spatula and cook for 5-6 minutes until no pink remains, stirring occasionally.
  5. Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to coat the meat evenly.
  6. Stir in 1 tablespoon tomato paste and ¼ cup beef broth or water. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  7. While the beef simmers, warm 8-10 tortillas in a dry skillet for 20 seconds on each side or wrap in a damp towel and microwave for 30 seconds.
  8. Spoon the beef mixture into warm tortillas and add desired toppings such as shredded cheese, cilantro, diced tomatoes, a squeeze of lime, or sour cream.
  9. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure beef browns properly. Use fresh spices for best flavor. Add a splash more broth or olive oil if beef seems dry. Warm tortillas gently to keep them soft. A squeeze of lime brightens the flavors before serving.

Nutrition

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