Beef Tacos Homemade Seasoning (Printable)
Savory ground beef with a vibrant spice blend served in warm tortillas with fresh toppings.
# What You'll Need:
→ Homemade Taco Seasoning
01 - 1 tablespoon chili powder
02 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
03 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
04 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
06 - 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
07 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
→ Beef Filling
10 - 1 pound ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 fat ratio)
11 - 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
12 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
13 - 1/3 cup water
14 - 1 tablespoon tomato paste
→ Tacos & Toppings
15 - 8 small flour or corn tortillas
16 - 1 cup shredded lettuce
17 - 1 cup diced tomatoes
18 - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
19 - 1/4 cup sour cream
20 - 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
21 - 1 small avocado, sliced
22 - Lime wedges for serving
# How to Make It:
01 - Combine chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, oregano, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly and set aside.
02 - Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and diced onion, breaking up meat with a wooden spoon. Cook until beef is browned and onion is softened, approximately 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
03 - Stir in minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
04 - Add the prepared taco seasoning blend, tomato paste, and water to the skillet. Mix thoroughly to ensure beef is evenly coated with spices.
05 - Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most liquid has been absorbed and flavors have melded together.
06 - Heat tortillas in a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side or microwave between damp paper towels for 20-30 seconds until pliable and warm.
07 - Fill each warmed tortilla with seasoned beef mixture. Top with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, cilantro, and avocado slices. Serve immediately with fresh lime wedges on the side.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The homemade seasoning takes about two minutes to whisk together but transforms ordinary ground beef into something restaurant-worthy.
- These come together in under thirty minutes but taste like you spent all afternoon thinking about dinner.
02 -
- Draining excess fat after browning the beef prevents greasy tacos but leave about a tablespoon for flavor.
- The mixture needs those few minutes of simmering time for the spices to bloom and the flavors to meld properly.
03 -
- Taste the beef mixture after simmering and adjust the salt or spices before serving.
- Set up a toppings bar and let everyone build their own perfect taco.