Easy Beef Tacos

How to Make Easy Beef Tacos

These easy steps show you how to make beef tacos. Refer to the recipe for all the ingredients, measurements, and directions to assure they turn out perfectly every time. With no extra ingredients that won’t fill the shells and end up going to waste:

Prepare the Taco Meat

Brown the ground beef and drain off the liquid that cooks out of it, otherwise you could get a watered-down flavor or a greasy taste. Simmer the beef with the salsa for 5 minutes so that the meat soaks up all the delicious flavors of the ingredients in the salsa. Pour the mixture into a large bowl; cover it to keep it warm while heating the taco shells.

Heat the Taco Shells

Heat the shells as directed on the package, for the perfect texture and temperature for serving.

Serve with Toppings

Serve the shells and taco meat with side bowls of shredded lettuce, chopped tomato, and shredded cheddar cheese. That way everyone can fill their own taco(s), making it even easier to get dinner on the table quickly.

Toppings for Tacos

We’ve used just a few basic toppings for the tacos that deliver on color, texture, and flavor in a 30-minute recipe, but you don’t have to stop there! Try any of these toppings or mix and match, because the best beef tacos are the ones made with your favorite ingredients:

Boost the Veggies: Add finely chopped bell pepper, sliced fresh or pickled onions, sliced or cooked radishes, roasted corn, or shredded cabbage.

Add Fruit: Fruit on tacos? Why, yes—both olives and avocados are considered fruits—and are tasty tacos toppers. Or for a unique twist, try pineapple!

Add Some Heat: For heat, add sliced fresh jalapeño or other chiles that range in flavor from mild to very hot. Sriracha, red pepper sauce, or kimchi will add a spicy flavor kick.

Swap Out the Cheese: Substitute shredded Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend, or crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese for the Cheddar cheese.

Get Saucy: Top your tacos with a spoonful of salsa, guacamole, or a dollop of sour cream.