Our Favorite Weeknight Ground Beef Tacos.

There’s nothing quite like a plate of warm, flavorful tacos to brighten up a weeknight dinner. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, these Our Favorite Weeknight Ground Beef Tacos. are a family favorite that can bring everyone together around the table. With an aromatic blend of spices, fresh toppings, and your choice of warm tortillas, these tacos are a weeknight staple you’ll turn to again and again.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

The beauty of these tacos lies not only in their flavor but also in their versatility. They are perfect for picky eaters, adventurous eaters, or anyone in between. The ground beef provides a hearty base that can easily be modified with various toppings and sauces, making them appealing to everyone. Plus, the simple preparation means you can whip them up in under 30 minutes, leaving you with more time to enjoy dinner with your loved ones.

The Ingredient Lineup

To make these delicious tacos, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 pound 85% to 93% lean ground beef
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked pepper
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, quartered
• 1 sweet onion, diced
• 1 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, juiced
• pinch of salt and pepper
• Corn or flour tortillas, warmed
• Hard shells or tortilla chips, if desired
• Sharp white cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• Avocado, diced
• Fresh cilantro
• Quick pickled onions

Prep & Cook Tools

Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the following tools ready:

• Large skillet: For cooking the ground beef and spices.
• Cutting board: To chop your fresh ingredients.
• Chef’s knife: For easy slicing and dicing.
• Mixing bowl: To combine the diced veggies and lime juice for the topping.
• Tongs: For flipping tortillas and serving.

Our Favorite Weeknight Ground Beef Tacos. — Do This Next

Now that you’re all set with ingredients and tools, let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Brown the beef until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Add the Spices

Once the beef is cooked, add the ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the meat is evenly coated with the spices and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Prepare the Fresh Toppings

While the beef is cooking, take a mixing bowl and combine the quartered cherry tomatoes, diced sweet onion, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss gently until everything is well mixed.

Step 4: Warm the Tortillas

In a separate pan or directly over the stove flame, warm your corn or flour tortillas until soft and pliable. This usually takes about 30 seconds on each side.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos

Now it’s time to assemble your tacos! Start with a warm tortilla, add a generous scoop of the seasoned ground beef, and top it with the fresh tomato-onion mixture. Finish with freshly grated sharp white cheddar cheese, diced avocado, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

Make It Year-Round

These tacos are perfect for any season, and here are a few ideas to keep them exciting year-round:

• Spring: Add fresh greens like arugula or spinach.
• Summer: Toss in grilled corn or zucchini for a light crunch.
• Fall: Incorporate roasted pumpkin or squash as a filling.
• Winter: Serve with warm, hearty toppings like sautéed mushrooms.

Method to the Madness

The method behind these delicious tacos is straightforward, yet it allows for creativity. You can easily adjust the seasonings to suit your taste; if you prefer a spicier kick, add more chili powder or even some diced jalapeños. The fresh toppings add a burst of flavor and brightness, balancing the richness of the beef. The key is to use quality ingredients and don’t rush through the cooking process.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

If you end up with leftovers (which is rare with these tasty tacos), here’s how to store them:

For refrigerating, place the cooked beef in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked beef for up to 3 months. Just remember to let it cool before freezing. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in a skillet until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, but the stovetop method keeps the beef juicy.

Reader Q&A

Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the beef. Just be mindful to adjust the seasonings slightly, as these meats tend to be milder in flavor.

What toppings do you recommend for picky eaters?

For picky eaters, I recommend sticking to the basics: cheese, diced avocado, and sour cream. You can serve the toppings on the side so everyone can build their own tacos to their liking.

How do I make quick pickled onions?

To make quick pickled onions, thinly slice a red onion and soak it in equal parts vinegar and water, adding a pinch of sugar and salt. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes. They’ll add a lovely tang to your tacos!

Can I prepare the beef ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the beef a day ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it and assemble your tacos. This makes for a super easy weeknight dinner!

Don’t Miss These

If you’re hungry for more tasty recipes, check out these favorites:

• Sally’s Baking Addiction for delicious dessert ideas.
• Pinch of Yum for creative and healthy meal options.
• Minimalist Baker for simple, plant-based recipes.

In Closing

There you have it: a simple yet flavorful recipe for Our Favorite Weeknight Ground Beef Tacos. With the perfect blend of spices, fresh toppings, and quick preparation, these tacos are sure to become a go-to in your household. Gather your loved ones, set the table, and enjoy a delightful meal that everyone can customize to their liking. Happy cooking!