Classic Beef Tacos

Savory spiced ground beef piled into warm charred corn tortillas with crisp fresh toppings. These classic beef tacos are a 35-minute weeknight hero that everyone around the table will love.

Prep time

20 mins

Cook time

15 mins

Total time

35 mins

Servings

4 servings

Calories

560

Ingredients

• 500g ground beef (80/20)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp taco seasoning
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 120ml tomato sauce
• 12 small corn tortillas
• 150g shredded lettuce
• 150g diced tomatoes
• 100g shredded cheddar cheese
• 60ml sour cream
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and brown the ground beef, breaking it into crumbles with a spoon, for 6 to 7 minutes until no pink remains. Drain off the excess fat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened, then stir in the garlic, taco seasoning, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the tomato sauce and 60ml of water. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is saucy but not soupy. Season with salt to taste.
4. Warm the corn tortillas directly over a gas flame for 20 seconds per side, or in a dry skillet, until pliable with lightly charred spots. Keep them wrapped in a clean towel.
5. Spoon the seasoned beef into the tortillas, about 3 tablespoons per taco.
6. Set out the lettuce, tomatoes, cheddar, sour cream, and lime wedges so everyone can top their own tacos, and serve immediately.

Pro tips

• Warming the tortillas is non-negotiable; cold corn tortillas crack and taste raw.
• Double up the tortillas for extra-sturdy tacos that hold generous fillings.
• Make a big batch of the seasoned beef and freeze it for up to 3 months for instant taco nights.
• For crispier beef, let it sit undisturbed in the hot pan for 2 minutes before stirring.

Frequently asked questions