Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mexican Ground Beef Tacos are a fast, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing meal made with seasoned ground beef tucked into crispy or soft taco shells. With bold spices, fresh toppings, and endless customization options, they’re perfect for weeknight dinners, taco nights, or casual gatherings that call for delicious simplicity.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beefoniongarlic clovestaco seasoning (or chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper)tomato pastawater or beef brothsaltpeppertaco shells or tortillasoptional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro, lime wedges

directions

In a large skillet, cook chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until softened.

Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.

Drain excess fat if necessary.

Stir in taco seasoning, tomato paste, and a splash of water or broth.

Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavorful.

Warm taco shells or tortillas according to package instructions.

Spoon the beef mixture into each shell and top with your favorite taco toppings.

Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6–8 tacos.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add black beans or corn to the beef for extra texture.

Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Swap tomato paste for salsa for a saucier filling.

Make it spicy with jalapeños or hot sauce.

Serve with Spanish rice or refried beans for a complete meal.

storage/reheating

Store leftover beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.Assemble tacos fresh each time for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought taco seasoning?

Yes, or make your own blend for a fresher, customizable flavor.

What tortillas work best?

Corn tortillas for authentic flavor, flour tortillas for flexibility, or hard shells for crunch.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the beef mixture in advance and reheat before serving.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free taco seasoning and corn tortillas to keep it gluten-free.

Can I freeze the beef?

Yes, freeze cooked taco meat in portions for up to 3 months.

How do I prevent soggy tacos?

Drain excess grease from the beef and serve in warm, dry shells.

What toppings are best?

Lettuce, cheese, tomatoes, sour cream, avocado, and cilantro are classics.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely—great for parties, meal prep, or taco bars.

What side dishes pair well?

Mexican rice, beans, elote (street corn), or chips and guacamole are perfect.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of paste?

Yes, but cook them down longer for the right consistency.

Conclusion

Mexican Ground Beef Tacos are a quick, tasty, and versatile staple that belong in every home cook’s rotation. With juicy, seasoned beef and your choice of toppings, they’re easy to personalize and guaranteed to satisfy. Perfect for busy nights or festive taco spreads, this recipe is a flavorful favorite you’ll make again and again.