Is there anything more satisfying than biting into a perfectly crispy taco shell filled with succulent beef and topped with your favorite fixings? Crispy beef tacos are the ultimate comfort food, and they bring together flavors and textures that are nothing short of a party in your mouth. Today, we’re diving into the art of crafting these delicious delights right at home.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 taco shells
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Diced tomatoes, lettuce, and sour cream for topping
Equipments
- Large skillet
- Spatula
- Wooden spoon
- Baking sheet
- Oven mitts
How to Make Crispy Beef Tacos – Step By Step
Step 1: Begin by cooking the beef.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until they become translucent and begin to emit a wonderful aroma. This should take about 3–4 minutes. Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Allow it to cook until it’s fully browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon to ensure even cooking. This process typically takes around 7–10 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet before proceeding to the next step.
Step 2: Season the beef mixture.
Once the beef is cooked and drained, sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and evenly incorporate the spices throughout the beef. The smell at this stage will be mouthwateringly tempting, creating the foundational flavors that define these crispy beef tacos.
Step 3: Prepare the taco shells.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lay the taco shells on a baking sheet in a single layer. Once preheated, place the tacos in the oven for about 5 minutes. This helps them to achieve that perfect crispness that’s so desirable in a taco experience. Remove with caution using oven mitts.
Step 4: Assemble the tacos.
It’s time to bring everything together! Fill each taco shell with a generous scoop of the seasoned beef. Sprinkle a substantial amount of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef while it’s still warm, allowing it to melt slightly. Finally, top with diced tomatoes, lettuce, and a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and texture contrast.
How to Serve Crispy Beef Tacos
Serve these tacos while they’re hot, accompanied by your favorite sides such as guacamole or refried beans. A squeeze of lime over the top can add a zesty brightness to the dish. Prepare to watch them disappear quickly from the table!
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For best results, use ground beef with a slightly higher fat content (around 80/20) which provides additional flavor. You can also play around with toppings, such as adding sliced avocados or jalapeños for an extra kick. If you prefer softer tacos, try using soft tortillas warmed in a skillet.
Pumped Up! High Protein Crispy Beef Tacos
If you’re looking to boost the protein content of these tacos, consider adding in some black beans or chickpeas to the beef mixture. This not only increases the protein but also adds a delightful texture and additional flavor profile. You might also opt for a sprinkle of quinoa or a protein-rich salsa with beans and corn.
Low-Carb Lovers Rejoice! Try These Keto-Friendly Crispy Beef Tacos
For those watching their carb intake, swap the traditional taco shells for cheese taco shells. By baking shredded cheese until slightly crispy, you create a low-carb vessel perfect for enjoying your beef filling. Top with lots of fresh veggies and avocado to keep it keto-focused and utterly delicious.
Storage Instructions
If you have leftovers, store the beef mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Taco shells should be stored separately to keep them from getting soggy. Reheat the beef in a skillet before serving again, and crisp up the taco shells in the oven for just a couple of minutes before assembly.
FAQs
Q: Can I prepare the beef mixture in advance?
A: Yes, the beef mixture can be made up to three days ahead and stored in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.
Q: How do I keep the taco shells crispy?
A: Store taco shells in an airtight container and only fill them just before eating.
Q: What can I use to make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free taco shells or lettuce wraps as an alternative.
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and offers a lighter option.
Embark on a Taco Adventure Today!
There you have it, a fantastic crispy beef taco recipe that’s sure to impress! These tacos provide a vibrant, satisfying meal, perfect for weekday dinners or a lively taco night with friends. Don’t forget to share your taco creations with us by commenting below or posting on social media. Let’s spread the taco love far and wide!
Crispy Beef Tacos
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- olive oil
- onion
- garlic
- chili powder
- cumin
- smoked paprika
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Add the ground beef, cooking until browned completely. Drain excess fat.
- Mix in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine flavors.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Place taco shells on a baking sheet and bake for 5 minutes.
- Fill each shell with beef, cheese, and desired toppings.