Ingredients

10 to 12 crispy taco shells (“stand and stuff”) OR soft tortillas of choice

1 tbsp oil

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 onion, finely chopped

500 g / 1 lb ground beef

2 tbsp tomato paste

1/4 cup / 65 ml water

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp dried oregano

2 tsp cumin powder

2 tsp paprika

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to taste)

1 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

Shredded cheese

Shredded iceberg lettuce

2 tomatoes, chopped

1/2 red or white onion, chopped

Sour cream

Taco sauce (optional)

Additional toppings: coriander/cilantro, jalapeño, hot sauce, pickled chillies, salsa, pico de gallo

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Step 2: Heat oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking for about 2 minutes until they turn golden.

Step 3: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook for about 2 minutes, breaking up the meat as it browns from red to light brown.

Step 4: Stir in the homemade taco seasoning—garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2 minutes until the beef is fully cooked through.

Step 5: Mix in the tomato paste and water, cooking for about 1 minute until the water evaporates and the beef filling is juicy but not watery.

Step 6 (Optional): Arrange the taco shells in a baking pan. Fill each shell with the beef mixture and top with shredded cheese. Bake for 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese melts and the shells become crispy.

Step 7: Serve the tacos hot. Lay out the shredded lettuce, tomatoes, onions, sour cream, taco sauce, and other preferred toppings to let everyone customize their own tacos.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, toast the spices before adding the beef to release their aromas.

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

If you prefer soft tacos, warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave before assembling.

Add a squeeze of lime juice over the assembled tacos for a fresh, zesty touch.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought taco seasoning instead of homemade?

Yes, store-bought seasoning works well if you prefer a shortcut, but making your own lets you adjust the spices to suit your taste.

How can I make these tacos vegetarian?

Replace the ground beef with cooked lentils, crumbled tofu, or a plant-based meat substitute and use the same seasoning for flavorful vegetarian tacos.