Ground Beef Tacos Recipe

Recipe Ingredients

The ingredients for these tacos might already be in your kitchen.

Ground Beef: After testing meat with various fat contents, we found that at least 80% lean (or higher) delivers the best flavor without a greasy taste.

Taco Shells: We love the crunch and ease of eating tacos made with hard shells. Swap 12 (6- to 8-inch) soft flour tortillas if you prefer.

Shredded Cheese: Cheddar makes the seasoning in the tacos sing, but Mexican blend is another great choice. Pepper Jack works if you want a kick.

Seasonings: Chili powder, garlic powder, and salt are all you need for a mild, all-family flavor. Spice up the meat by adding 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce with the seasonings.

Toppings: These add flavor, crunch, and visual appeal, but feel free to swap in your favorites, such as black or green olives, diced fresh avocado, or guacamole.

How to Make Ground Beef Tacos

Here are the basics of how to make our easy ground beef tacos. Refer to the recipe for all the specifics, so your tacos will taste perfectly seasoned with the just the right amount of filling.

Prepare the Taco Meat

Cook your ground beef with onion to add flavor in just one step—slashing time from cooking them separately. Add garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and tomato sauce to the drained meat mixture and simmer to bring out and balance the flavors perfectly.

Warm the Taco Shells

For the best texture and experience, warm the taco shells in the oven. In a hurry? You can skip this step and get right to filling the shells!

Assemble the Tacos

Spoon the taco ingredients into the shells, starting with the ground beef mixture and top with cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes.

Serve with Sauces

Offer salsa and sour cream so that each person can top their tacos as they wish.

How to Store (and Reheat) Ground Beef Tacos

Use these tips for storing ground beef tacos.

Refrigerator Storage

Place cooled taco meat in a food-storage container with a lid. Store in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.

Freezer Storage

Place cooled taco meat in a freezer-safe food storage container with a lid. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Thawing

Place frozen taco meat in the refrigerator overnight to thaw, or follow directions for reheating from frozen (below).

Reheating

• Refrigerated Taco Meat: Place meat in a microwavable bowl. Cover and microwave on Medium-High (70%) 2 to 3 minutes or until heated through. Meanwhile, heat shells as directed in recipe. Fill shells and top as desired.
• Frozen Taco Meat: Place meat in a microwavable bowl. Cover and microwave on Low (30%) 2 to 3 minutes or until meat can be broken up with a spoon. Heat on Medium-High (70%) 2 to 3 minutes or until heated through. Meanwhile, heat shells as directed in recipe. Fill shells and top as desired.