Beef Tacos Homemade Seasoning (Print Version)
Savor juicy, flavorful ground beef served in warm tortillas with a zesty homemade spice blend and fresh garnishes. Quick & satisfying!
# What You'll Need:
→ For the Homemade Taco Seasoning
01 - 1 tablespoon chili powder
02 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
03 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
04 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
06 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
07 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
08 - 1 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
→ For the Taco Filling
10 - 1 pound ground beef (80/20 recommended)
11 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
12 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
13 - 2/3 cup water
14 - 1 tablespoon tomato paste
→ For Serving
15 - 8 small corn or flour tortillas
16 - 1 cup shredded lettuce
17 - 1 cup diced tomatoes
18 - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
19 - 1/2 cup sour cream
20 - 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
21 - 1 lime, cut into wedges
# How-To Steps:
01 - In a small bowl, combine all homemade taco seasoning ingredients thoroughly. Set aside.
02 - Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is fully browned and cooked through, approximately 5–6 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
03 - Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the vegetables are softened and aromatic.
04 - Sprinkle the prepared homemade taco seasoning over the beef mixture. Stir in the tomato paste and water, ensuring all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
05 - Reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5–7 minutes until it thickens and most of the liquid has been absorbed, creating a rich taco filling.
06 - While the beef filling simmers, warm the tortillas. This can be done in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 15-30 seconds per side, or by wrapping them in foil and heating them in a low oven (around 250°F / 120°C) for 10-15 minutes until soft and pliable.
07 - To assemble, spoon a generous portion of the beef mixture into each warm tortilla. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, fresh chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice from a wedge.
08 - Serve the assembled beef tacos immediately for the best flavor and experience.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- You get to ditch those store-bought seasoning packets and discover how much better homemade truly tastes.
- This recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights, coming together so quickly yet feeling incredibly satisfying and fresh.
02 -
- Don't skip draining the fat from the beef; it makes a huge difference in the final texture and prevents greasiness in your tacos.
- Warming your tortillas properly is non-negotiable; a soft, pliable tortilla is the perfect vessel, not a cold, stiff one.
03 -
- Don't be shy with the lime; a generous squeeze over the finished taco brightens all the flavors and adds a crucial tangy counterpoint.
- For an extra layer of flavor, toast your spices lightly in a dry pan for about 30 seconds before adding them to the beef; it really wakes them up.