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Crispy Ground Beef Tacos with golden crunchy taco shells seasoned ground beef shredded lettuce diced tomatoes cheddar cheese and fresh cilantro on a wooden board

Crispy Ground Beef Tacos

Seasoned ground beef simmered until thick and flavorful, loaded into oven warmed crunchy shells with cheese, lettuce, tomato, and sour cream. A quick 30 minute dinner that beats a soft, soggy taco every time.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 340
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef, 80/20 blend
  • 1/2 whole yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/3 cup water or beef broth
  • 12 whole hard taco shells
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1 cup diced tomato
  • 1/2 cup sour cream for serving
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped for serving

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Baking Sheet

Method
 

  1. Cook onion until softened, then add garlic and ground beef, browning fully.
  2. Drain excess grease, then stir in spices and broth, simmering 4 to 5 minutes until thickened.
  3. Warm taco shells at 350°F for 5 minutes until crisp.
  4. Fill shells with beef, cheese, lettuce, and tomato.
  5. Top with sour cream and cilantro, serve with lime wedges.

Notes

  • Drain excess grease before adding spices for better flavor absorption.
  • Warm shells briefly before filling to restore crunch.
  • Store beef filling separately from shells and toppings.
  • Freezes well for up to 3 months.