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Authentic Beef Tacos

Juicy seasoned ground beef tacos made with a homemade spice blend, fresh toppings, and warm corn tortillas , ready in 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 (8 tacos)
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper , optional
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef , 80/20
  • ½ cup diced white onion , for cooking
  • 2 cloves garlic , minced
  • ⅓ cup water
  • 8 small corn tortillas
  • ½ cup diced white onion , for topping
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage
  • ½ cup shredded cheese
  • 1 lime , cut into wedges
  • Salsa or hot sauce , to serve

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • spatula

Method
 

  1. Mix chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook diced onion 2–3 minutes.
  3. Add ground beef and cook until no longer pink, about 5–6 minutes. Drain fat.
  4. Stir in garlic, cook 30 seconds. Add seasoning mix and water. Simmer 3–5 minutes until thickened.
  5. Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave wrapped in a damp towel.
  6. Fill tortillas with beef and top with onion, cilantro, lettuce, and cheese. Serve with lime and salsa.