Crispy Ground Beef Tacos Recipe

There’s something irresistibly satisfying about biting into a crispy taco shell filled with flavorful, perfectly seasoned ground beef. The crunch, the savory filling, and the fresh toppings create a symphony of flavors and textures that make these Crispy Ground Beef Tacos an all-time favorite.

this Recipe

I first started making these tacos for weeknight dinners when I needed something quick yet guaranteed to please the entire family. Now, they’re a regular feature on Taco Tuesdays—and let’s be honest, just about every other day of the week.

Why You'll Love These Crispy Ground Beef Tacos

Get ready to discover your new go-to dinner. These tacos are a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as they are delicious.

They’re quick and convenient. In under 30 minutes, you can have a full taco feast ready to enjoy. Perfect for busy evenings!

Budget-friendly and satisfying. Using affordable pantry staples like ground beef, taco seasoning, and tortillas means you can feed a hungry crowd without breaking the bank.

Customizable for everyone’s tastes. Whether you’re loading them with cheese, adding spicy jalapeños, or piling on fresh guacamole, these tacos can be tailored to your preferences.

The ultimate comfort food. The combination of crispy shells and warm, seasoned beef makes these tacos a nostalgic classic that never goes out of style.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to these tacos lies in the combination of simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role in the final dish. Here's what you'll need:

Ground Beef: The star of the show! Opt for 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and tenderness. Leaner beef works too but may need a splash of olive oil to prevent dryness.

Taco Seasoning: Store-bought taco seasoning keeps things simple, but if you prefer homemade, combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne.

Taco Shells: Hard shells are the classic choice, providing that irresistible crunch. For extra flavor, try warming them in the oven or over an open flame.

Cheese: Shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend are excellent choices. The cheese melts beautifully over the warm beef.

Toppings: Fresh toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro add texture and brightness. Don’t forget the sour cream and guacamole for creaminess!

Special Equipment: A large skillet for browning the beef and a baking sheet to warm the taco shells are all you need.

How To Make Crispy Ground Beef Tacos

Making these tacos is as straightforward as it gets, but the result is anything but ordinary. Here's how to bring them to life:

1. Cook the ground beef. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks, ensuring it browns evenly.
2. Season to perfection. Once the beef is fully cooked and no pink remains, drain excess grease if needed. Sprinkle in the taco seasoning along with a splash of water. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes until the flavors meld together.
3. Prepare your taco shells. While the beef cooks, warm the taco shells. Place them on a baking sheet and heat in a 375°F oven for 5 minutes, or until they’re crisp and golden.
4. Assemble the tacos. Spoon the seasoned ground beef into each taco shell, filling them about halfway. Top with shredded cheese, letting it melt slightly over the warm beef.
5. Add your toppings. Finish with lettuce, tomatoes, and onions. A dollop of sour cream or guacamole takes these tacos over the top.

In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a platter of crispy tacos that look as good as they taste!

Storage Options

If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s rare in my house!), storing and reheating them is simple:

Refrigerate the ground beef filling. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Store taco shells separately. Keep unused shells in their original package or a sealed bag to maintain crispiness.

Freezing the beef filling. For longer storage, freeze the cooked beef in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating tips: Warm the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it’s too dry. Reheat taco shells in the oven to restore their crunch.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about these tacos is how adaptable they are. Here are a few ways to switch things up:

1. Change the protein. Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian option.
2. Spice it up. Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for extra heat.
3. Try soft shells. Prefer soft tacos? Use flour or corn tortillas instead of hard shells, warming them in a skillet for added flavor.
4. Add beans. Stretch the filling by mixing in black beans or refried beans for added fiber and texture.
5. Experiment with toppings. From pickled onions to fresh mango salsa, the possibilities are endless. Have fun creating your signature taco combination!

These Crispy Ground Beef Tacos are a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or whipping up a weeknight meal, they’re guaranteed to hit the spot. So grab some taco shells, and let’s get cooking! 🌮

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