Print

Easy Flavor-Packed Beef Tacos Recipe with Homemade Seasoning for Perfect Taco Night

easy flavor-packed beef tacos - featured image

A quick and easy beef taco recipe featuring a homemade seasoning blend that delivers smoky, zesty flavor perfect for weeknights or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2/3 cup water
  • 8 taco shells or soft tortillas (corn or flour)
  • Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend), sour cream or Greek yogurt, fresh cilantro, fresh lime wedges

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
  2. Finely dice the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  4. Add diced onion and cook for about 3 minutes until translucent and slightly golden.
  5. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and no pink remains. Drain excess fat if desired.
  7. Sprinkle the homemade seasoning over the cooked beef. Pour in water and stir to combine.
  8. Lower heat to medium and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mixture thickens slightly.
  9. Warm taco shells or tortillas according to package instructions or toast corn tortillas in a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side.
  10. Assemble tacos by spooning seasoned beef into shells or tortillas and topping with desired toppings.

Notes

If beef mixture seems dry after simmering, add a splash more water. If too wet, increase heat to cook off excess liquid. Toast tortillas to prevent sogginess. Homemade seasoning can be made in advance and stored up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef tacos, homemade taco seasoning, easy tacos, quick dinner, taco night, ground beef recipe, Mexican food