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–+ servings

Crispy Ground Beef Tacos

These easy ground beef tacos feature homemade crispy shells, a smoky spiced filling, and fresh toppings — ready in 35 minutes with minimal cleanup required.
Print Recipe
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:25 minutes

Ingredients

For the Beef Filling:

  • 1 lb ground beef 80/20 blend recommended
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion finely diced
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper optional
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup beef broth or water

For the Tacos:

  • 8 corn tortillas
  • 2 tbsp neutral oil for frying
  • 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
  • 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
  • 2 roma tomatoes diced
  • Sour cream and hot sauce for serving

Instructions

  • Cook the beef. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook another 30 seconds.
  • Season it up. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat, then stir in all the spices and beef broth. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until the liquid mostly absorbs. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Crisp the tortillas. In a separate skillet, heat a thin layer of neutral oil over medium heat. Place a corn tortilla flat, add a spoonful of beef and a pinch of cheese to one half, then fold it over. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
  • Assemble and serve. Open each taco and stuff with lettuce, tomato, sour cream, and hot sauce. Serve immediately while the shells are still crispy.
Servings: 4