Old School American-Style Ground Beef Tacos
Welcome to TacoTuesday.com, your ultimate destination for all things tacos! Whether you’re planning a festive taco night for your family or just craving a deliciously simple meal, nothing beats the classic American-style soft shell taco. It’s a familiar favorite, loaded with seasoned ground beef, crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and melty cheese, all wrapped in a warm, soft flour tortilla.
Ingredients:
For 4 servings:
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend: cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper)
- 8 soft flour tortillas (6-inch size)
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
- Sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ground Beef: In a medium-sized skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
- Once the beef is browned, drain the excess grease, and return it to the skillet.
- Stir in your taco seasoning (either store-bought or homemade) and about ⅓ cup of water. Simmer for 5 minutes until the beef is fully coated and the sauce thickens.
- Warm the Tortillas: While the beef is simmering, heat your flour tortillas. You can warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 20-30 seconds on each side or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 15-20 seconds.
- Assemble the Tacos: Place a generous spoonful of the seasoned ground beef in the center of each tortilla.
Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and plenty of shredded cheese.
If desired, add a dollop of sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for extra flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately while everything is warm and fresh. Pair these tacos with chips and salsa, rice, or refried beans for a complete meal.
Customization Tips:
- Spice it up: Add some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to your tacos for a bit of heat.
Make it cheesy: Sprinkle a little extra cheese on your taco and pop it in the oven for a few minutes for a melty, cheesy delight.
- Healthy swap: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter, healthier option.
- Taco Night Extras: Don’t forget the chips and guacamole or the classic margarita. We have plenty of recipes for both.
These homemade American-style soft shell tacos are the perfect way to celebrate Taco Tuesday at home.
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