Ingredients: 

• 2 lb ground beef 
• 1 chopped onion 
• 2 TBSP minced garlic 
• 1 tsp each of salt and pepper 
• 1/2 tsp cayenne 
• 4 tsp chili powder 
• 2 tsp each of cumin and dried cilantro
• 1 1/2 cups of beef broth 
• White corn tortillas 
• 1 tbsp oil 
• Shredded Monterey Jack cheese 
• Taco Toppings (sour cream, taco sauce, Pico de Gallo, shredded lettuce) 

Preparing Your Beef Tacos:

Making beef tacos can be simple if you approach it with a plan. Start with a couple of pounds of  thawed ground beef, ensuring it’s ready for cooking. I always use two pounds because it  guarantees plenty of food for dinner and some leftovers for the next day. While the beef is  cooking, take some time to chop the onion and measure the seasonings ahead of time, so  everything is ready when you need it. This small amount of prep work saves time and keeps  everything organized. 

For the toppings, my favorite is Monterey Jack cheese, which I prefer to shred from a block for a  much creamier consistency. Whether it’s the bold flavors of the seasoned meat or the smooth  texture of freshly shredded cheese, every ingredient comes together beautifully. A little effort  goes a long way in creating tacos that everyone loves. 

Make Beef Tacos:

To begin, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Once the beef  begins to brown, toss in the chopped onion and continue to cook until the beef is fully browned.  Drain the excess grease from the meat and add the minced garlic. Now, it’s time to season the  meat. I like to use salt, pepper, cayenne, chili powder, dried cilantro, and cumin for the perfect  blend. If you’re in a hurry, you can also use a taco seasoning packet, but I recommend making  your own for a more flavorful dish.

Once the meat is seasoned, pour in about 1 1/2 cups of beef broth and stir everything together.  Let this mixture come to a quick boil, then reduce the heat and cover with a lid. Let it simmer on low for about 20 minutes or until the liquid starts to reduce. If the liquid hasn’t reduced  enough, remove the lid and let it continue cooking a bit longer. 

Why You’ll Love It:

There’s something truly satisfying about the crunch of a hard-shell taco paired with a deeply  savory beef filling. It’s a classic combo that brings comfort and flavor to any meal. The best  part? You can take a build-your-own approach to add your favorite toppings, making it a fun and customizable dinner. Whether you love spicy salsa or fresh greens, the limitless  possibilities mean everyone can enjoy their perfect taco. 

To make the beef filling even better, I like to use tomato paste for that extra umami flavor. It’s a  simple way to boost the richness of the dish while keeping it easy and delicious. If you’re ready  to take tacos to the next level, this recipe has you covered!

Perfecting Your Beef Taco Filling:

To make the perfect taco filling, start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and  adding ground beef with some chopped onion. Let the meat cook until it’s fully browned, then  carefully drain the grease to keep the dish light. Mix in minced garlic to enhance the aroma. For  seasoning, I like a personal blend of taco seasonings such as salt, pepper, cayenne, chili powder,  dried cilantro, and cumin. While you could use a pre-made seasoning packet, the homemade  touch adds a unique flavor. Once the meat is well seasoned, pour in about 1 1/2 cups of beef  broth and give it a thorough stir.

Allow the mixture to come to a quick boil, then reduce the heat, cover the skillet with a lid, and  let it simmer on low for about 20 minutes. This helps the flavors meld while the liquid starts to  reduce. If the sauce needs to thicken further, simply remove the lid and continue cooking until  it reaches the desired consistency. This slow process ensures the filling is juicy and bursting with  flavor, perfect for your tacos.

Building Perfect Beef Tacos:

When the meat is ready, start by heating a clean skillet and adding 1-2 tbsp of oil—either  olive or avocado oil works well for flavor. Place a few white corn tortillas in the skillet, then  sprinkle each with a small handful of shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Add a spoonful of taco  meat to each tortilla, and carefully fold them in half. Allow the tacos to cook on both sides  until they turn a beautiful golden brown and become delightfully crispy.

This step can be a bit tricky, but using a spatula to fold the sides and gently press down on  each taco helps them hold their shape. After a few minutes, once they are fully cooked,  transfer the tacos onto paper towels to drain any extra grease. This simple method ensures  tacos that are full of flavor and just the right texture, perfect for any occasion.

Serve and Enjoy Beef Tacos:

Once all the tacos are perfectly made, it’s time to serve them and enjoy! Pairing them with  fresh Pico de Gallo adds a tangy kick, while a dollop of sour cream brings a creamy balance.  For an extra touch, I love adding my favorite Pomegranate Guacamole to the plate. It’s a blend  of vibrant flavors that makes the meal even more delightful.

This combination is not only satisfying but also elevates the simple act of eating into a  flavorful experience. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together, these tacos are