Quick Tacos with Homemade Seasoning
Delicious and easy tacos made with homemade seasoning and customizable toppings for a fun family dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes.
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 250kcal
Ingredients
Homemade Taco Seasoning
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (regular paprika works too)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (more or less to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- a pinch oregano
- optional pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for added heat
Taco Filling
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 to 3 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (optional for richer flavor)
Taco Toppings
- shredded lettuce or thin sliced cabbage for crunch
- diced tomatoes or pico de gallo
- shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- salsa or hot sauce
- avocado or guacamole
- pickled red onions or jalapenos if you like zip
- lime wedges for that bright finish
Tortillas
- corn or flour tortillas or lettuce wraps for a lighter option
Instructions
Preparation
- Mix all the homemade taco seasoning ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil if using very lean beef.
- Add 1 pound of ground beef and break it up with a spoon.
Cooking
- Cook until no longer pink, then drain excess grease if desired.
- Sprinkle in 2 to 3 tablespoons of the homemade seasoning.
- Add 1/4 cup water, stir, and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until thickened.
- Optional: Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste for a richer flavor.
Serving
- Prepare toppings and let everyone build their own tacos.
- Warm tortillas in a microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel for about 30 seconds or in a dry skillet for better flavor.
Notes
Prep toppings while the beef cooks to save time. Taste the seasoning before serving to adjust flavors as needed.