Introduction
Craving a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying meal? Look no further than classic Tex-Mex tacos! Ground beef and cheese tacos are a weeknight staple, loved for their simplicity and customizable flavors. This recipe offers a delicious and adaptable base, perfect for satisfying your taco cravings. Get ready for a fiesta in your kitchen!
Making the Best Tex-Mex Ground Beef and Cheese Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 for flavor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend – see below)
- ½ cup water
- 12 taco shells (hard or soft, your preference)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a blend)
- Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, salsa, guacamole, jalapeños
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add diced onion to the skillet with the cooked ground beef and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Season the Beef: Stir in taco seasoning and water. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the beef is well coated.
- Warm the Taco Shells: While the beef is simmering, warm your taco shells according to package directions. This step is crucial for optimal flavor and texture.
- Assemble the Tacos: Fill each taco shell with the seasoned ground beef and top with shredded cheese.
- Add Your Favorite Toppings: Add your desired toppings, such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, salsa, guacamole, and jalapeños.
- Serve and Enjoy! Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Tex-Mex ground beef and cheese tacos.
Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe
Want to control the ingredients and sodium in your taco seasoning? Here’s a simple recipe:
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and store in an airtight container.
Tips and Variations for Perfect Tacos
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ground beef while cooking for extra heat.
- Make it Healthier: Use lean ground beef (90/10) or ground turkey.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with crumbled tofu or black beans.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Add Some Crunch: Top your tacos with crushed tortilla chips or Fritos for extra texture.
- Make it a Taco Salad: Crumble the tacos on top of a bed of lettuce with all your favorite toppings for a delicious taco salad.
Conclusion
These Tex-Mex ground beef and cheese tacos are a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering, these tacos are sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy a taco fiesta!
