• ▢ 1 Tbsp. olive oil – A good quality olive oil forms the base for sautéing, adding a subtle richness.
• ▢ 3 garlic cloves minced – Freshly minced garlic is crucial for a potent, aromatic flavor.
• ▢ 1 onion finely diced – Finely diced onion provides a sweet and savory base that truly enhances the beef.
• ▢ 1/3 cup tomato paste – This concentrated paste adds a depth of umami and helps create a rich, cohesive sauce for the beef.
• ▢ 4 tsp. chili powder – The heart of our taco seasoning, chili powder provides that iconic Tex-Mex flavor. Adjust to your preferred spice level.
• ▢ 1 pound lean ground beef – Lean ground beef is perfect for tacos, ensuring a flavorful but not overly greasy filling. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• ▢ 1 tsp. salt – Salt brings all the flavors together. Always taste and adjust as needed.
• ▢ corn or flour tortillas about 8-10, depending on size and preference for soft or hard shells. – The foundation of your taco! Choose between classic corn for a traditional feel or soft flour for a milder taste.
• ▢ toppings such as lettuce tomatoes, salsa, cheese, avocado, sour cream, cilantro, hot sauce, etc. – This is where you make it your own! Fresh, crunchy, creamy, or spicy – customize to your heart’s content.

• Prepare the Flavor Base: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add your finely diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent and fragrant, which usually takes about five minutes. This step is crucial for building a deep flavor foundation. Next, stir in the tomato paste and chili powder. Cook for another minute, allowing the spices to toast slightly and release their aromas.
• Cook the Ground Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break up the meat into small, even pieces. Cook, stirring regularly, until the beef is fully browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep your tacos light and fresh. Finally, add the salt and stir well to combine, ensuring the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the beef mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
• Heat the Tortillas: For corn tortillas, lightly spray a small skillet with cooking spray and heat over medium-high. Place one corn tortilla on the hot skillet and cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute per side, flipping once it’s golden and slightly toasted. Repeat with the remaining corn tortillas. If you’re using flour tortillas, stack a few of them and wrap them in a damp paper towel. Microwave for 10-15 seconds, or until they are warm and pliable. This prevents them from cracking and makes them easier to fold.
• Assemble and Serve Your Tacos: Once your beef filling is ready and your tortillas are warmed, it’s time to assemble! Spoon a generous amount of the seasoned meat mixture into the center of each heated tortilla. Then, set out an array of your favorite taco toppings, such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, fresh salsa, grated cheese, creamy avocado slices or guacamole, and a dollop of sour cream. Let everyone build their own perfect homemade taco. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful flavors!

Pro Tip for Meal Prep: The beef filling can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. This makes taco night even quicker on busy evenings!

Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the beef mixture while it simmers. For a milder flavor, slightly reduce the amount of chili powder.

Vegetarian Option: For a delicious vegetarian alternative, substitute the ground beef with a pound of cooked black beans, lentils, or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Adjust seasonings as needed.