Ingredients
Taco Seasoning
- 1 tbsp chili powder (up to 2 tbsp depending on preference for heat)
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tsp paprika
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp ground pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp coriander
- ¼ tsp oregano
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
Pico de Gallo
- 2 roma tomatoes (diced to ½” – about 1 cup)
- ½ small white onion (diced to ½” – about ½ cup)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp ground pepper
Main Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion (finely chopped to ¼”)
- 1 lb ground beef (80-90% lean)
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 12 soft corn tortillas (or flour tortillas)
- ¾ cup shredded cheddar jack cheese (or cheddar cheese)
- ¼ head iceberg lettuce (shredded)
- ⅓ cup sour cream
Instructions
- Make Taco Seasoning: Combine all taco seasoning ingredients in a small bowl or lidded jar and stir or shake until well-combined.
- Prepare Tomato Paste Broth Mixture: In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the beef broth and tomato paste until very smooth.
- Make Pico de Gallo: Combine the diced tomatoes, diced white onion, chopped cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well and adjust seasoning to taste. Transfer to the fridge to marinate while cooking the beef.
- Cook Onions and Beef: Heat a 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and heat until shimmering. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and onions are translucent and caramelized on edges, about 7-8 minutes.
- Add Taco Seasoning: Stir in the prepared taco seasoning into the beef and onion mixture. Cook, stirring frequently, until the seasoning is fully incorporated and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Simmer with Broth and Tomato Paste: Pour in the beef broth and tomato paste mixture. Stir to combine and let simmer, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is mostly absorbed and the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Serve: Warm the tortillas and serve the beef mixture immediately. Top with shredded cheese, shredded lettuce, sour cream, and pico de gallo. Enjoy your delicious ground beef tacos!
Notes
- Adjust chili powder quantity to control the spiciness of the taco seasoning.
- For a lighter option, use leaner ground beef or ground turkey.
- Corn tortillas keep it more traditional, but flour tortillas are also delicious.
- The pico de gallo can be made ahead and refrigerated for enhanced flavor.
- Use fresh lime juice for the best bright flavor in the pico de gallo.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat the beef filling before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
