20-Minute Ground Beef Tacos
This 20-minute ground beef tacos recipe is a perfect solution for quick dinner recipes. You’ll create flavorful tacos in minutes, ideal for busy weeknights. Enjoy a satisfying meal that everyone will love with minimal effort.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less fat. Ground turkey is a great substitute.
- Taco Seasoning: Pre-made packets work well. Make your own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Tortillas: Corn or flour tortillas are both delicious. Hard taco shells are another option.
- Toppings: Lettuce, cheese, salsa, and sour cream are classic.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
- ¾ cup water
- 12 taco shells or tortillas (corn or flour)
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded lettuce
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Diced tomatoes
- Salsa
- Sour cream
- Sliced jalapeños
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4 (3 tacos per serving)
- Tools: Large skillet, spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the pan.
2. Season the Beef
Add the taco seasoning packet and ¾ cup of water to the cooked ground beef. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
3. Simmer for Flavor
Let the ground beef mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until most of the liquid has been absorbed and the mixture has thickened. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
4. Warm Your Tortillas
While the beef simmers, warm your taco shells or tortillas according to package directions. You can heat them in a microwave, oven, or a dry skillet. This makes them pliable and prevents breakage.
5. Assemble Your Tacos
Fill each warm taco shell or tortilla with the seasoned ground beef. Offer a variety of toppings for everyone to customize their quick dinner recipes.
Variation Ideas:
- Cheesy Beef Tacos: Stir ½ cup of shredded cheese into the beef mixture before serving.
- Spicy Tacos: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the beef.
- Bean Tacos: Mix in a can of drained and rinsed black beans or pinto beans with the beef for added fiber.
- Veggie Loaded: Sauté diced onions and bell peppers with the ground beef.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover ground beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the beef gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Keep toppings separate to maintain freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can you prepare the beef ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the seasoned ground beef up to 2-3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- What kind of tortillas work best?
Both corn and flour tortillas are excellent. Choose your preference, or offer a mix for variety.
- How do you prevent taco shells from breaking?
Warming hard taco shells makes them less brittle. You can also lightly grease them before warming.
- Can you make this recipe spicier?
Absolutely. Add extra chili powder, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or use a “hot” taco seasoning blend.
- What are good side dishes for tacos?
Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple green salad are fantastic complements to these quick dinner recipes.
- Is ground turkey a good substitute for ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey works very well and is a leaner alternative. Follow the same cooking instructions.
