Classic Beef Tacos Recipe: Taco Tuesday
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8-10 taco shells
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade mix)
- 1 head of lettuce, shredded
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup salsa
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Lime wedges (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes, making sure to break it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
Step 2: Add Taco Seasoning
Drain the excess grease from the skillet and then stir in the taco seasoning along with 3/4 cup of water. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook until thickened, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Warm the Taco Shells
While the ground beef is cooking, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the taco shells on an oven-safe plate or a baking sheet and warm them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Assemble the Tacos
Carefully fill each warm taco shell with the cooked, seasoned ground beef. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese.
Step 5: Add Toppings
Finish by adding a dollop of sour cream and a spoonful of salsa to each taco. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice if desired.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the tacos immediately while they’re still warm and enjoy your Taco Tuesday!
Equipment and Tools
- Large skillet
- Spatula
- Oven-safe plate or baking sheet
- Knife (for chopping lettuce and dicing tomatoes)
Preparation
Ensure you have all your ingredients prepped for assembly before cooking your ground beef. This includes shredding the lettuce, dicing the tomatoes, and grating the cheese. By preparing these components ahead of time, assembling your tacos will be quick and efficient, maintaining the integrity and crispness of the shells.
Cooking Process
Begin by cooking the ground beef over medium heat in a skillet, then add the taco seasoning and water as indicated in the instructions. Simultaneously, warm the taco shells in the oven to ensure they’re ready for assembly. The key to great tacos is the layering of flavors, textures, and temperatures, so keeping your ingredients properly prepped and timed is crucial.
Tips and Tricks
To personalize your tacos:
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approx. 290 per taco
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 15g
Conclusion:
Dive into a plateful of Classic Beef Tacos and make your Taco Tuesday night a hit! With the perfect balance of zesty seasoned beef, sharp cheese, fresh veggies, and warm crispy shells, your family and friends are sure to ask for seconds. Enjoy the customizable nature of tacos by adding your favorite toppings and creating a taco spread that caters to all tastes. Happy feasting!