Old School Beef Tacos
Classic and easy-to-make beef tacos with customizable toppings, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Taco Shells
- 10 to 12 pieces crispy taco shells or soft tortillas of choice Use crispy taco shells for easy filling.
Beef Filling
- 1 tbsp oil For cooking the filling.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced To add flavor to the filling.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped Adds sweetness and texture.
- 500 g beef, ground/minced Main protein for the tacos.
- 2 tbsp tomato paste Adds acidity and depth of flavor.
- ¼ cup water To adjust consistency.
- 1 tsp garlic powder Optional for extra flavor.
- 1 tsp onion powder Optional for extra flavor.
- 1 tsp dried oregano Adds herbal notes.
- 2 tsp cumin powder Brings warmth and earthiness.
- 2 tsp paprika Adds color and a mild flavor.
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper Adjust spiciness to taste.
- 1 tsp salt To taste.
- ¼ tsp black pepper To taste.
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheese For topping.
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce For added crunch.
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped Fresh topping.
- ½ medium red or white onion, chopped Adds sharpness.
- 1 cup sour cream Optional topping.
- to taste taco sauce Optional.
- to taste coriander/cilantro, jalapeño, hot sauce, pickled chillies, salsa sauce, pico de gallo Additional toppings for customization.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 180C/350F.
- Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking until they become soft.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
- Mix in the tomato paste and water, followed by all the spices (garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cumin, paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper). Stir well and let it cook for a few more minutes until heated through.
Baking (optional)
- If you prefer a crispier taco shell, place the taco shells in the oven for a few minutes to warm and crisp them up.
Serving
- Fill each taco shell with the beef mixture and top with shredded cheese, lettuce, chopped tomatoes, and onion.
- Add sour cream and taco sauce if desired.
Notes
For leftovers, store the beef filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Warm it up before serving. Taco shells should be kept in a cool, dry place and consumed within a week for optimal freshness.