Classic Ground Beef Tacos

Classic Ground Beef Tacos

Ingredients:

– 1 pound (450g) ground beef
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning (or use homemade seasoning)
– 1/2 cup tomato sauce or water
– 8 small flour or corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded lettuce
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, guacamole, sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro

Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Beef:**
– Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
– Drain excess fat if necessary, then add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the onion is soft.
– Stir in the taco seasoning and tomato sauce (or water). Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, until the mixture thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.

2. **Warm the Tortillas:**
– While the beef is simmering, warm the tortillas. You can do this by heating them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side or by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 30 seconds.

3. **Assemble the Tacos:**
– Spoon the seasoned ground beef mixture into the warmed tortillas.
– Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, red onions, and shredded cheese.
– Add any additional toppings you like, such as sour cream, salsa, guacamole, or sliced jalapeños.

4. **Serve:**
– Serve the tacos immediately while they’re warm. Enjoy them with a side of rice, beans, or chips and salsa.

Tips:

– For extra flavor, you can toast the tortillas directly over a gas flame for a few seconds to give them a slightly charred taste.
– If you prefer a healthier option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.

Enjoy your homemade beef tacos!