Name: Crispy Ground Beef Tacos Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound 90/10 ground beef; 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons taco seasoning; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1/4 cup water or beef broth, as needed; Salt to taste; 8 (6 inch) taco size flour tortillas; 2 to 3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded; Avocado or vegetable oil, for frying; Fresh cilantro, finely chopped, for garnish (optional)

Ingredients

1 pound 90/10 ground beef

1/2 medium onion, finely chopped

2 tablespoons taco seasoning

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1/4 cup water or beef broth, as needed

Salt to taste, as needed

8 (6 inch) taco size flour tortillas

2 to 3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

Avocado or vegetable oil

Fresh cilantro, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat about 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until softened, about 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 2: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a large spoon and cook until most of the beef is browned, about 4 to 5 minutes.

Step 3: Stir in the tomato paste and taco seasoning. If the mixture looks dry, add water or beef broth as needed. Continue cooking until the beef is fully cooked through and most of the liquid has evaporated, about 3 to 4 minutes. Season with salt to taste. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 4: On a clean surface, lay out a tortilla. On the top half, spread about 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons of shredded mozzarella cheese. Spoon a portion of the beef filling over the cheese, then top with another 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons of cheese. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla over to enclose the filling and press gently to seal.

Step 5: Place the assembled taco on a large baking sheet. Repeat with remaining tortillas, cheese, and beef filling to make 8 tacos.

Step 6: Heat 3 to 4 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the tacos in batches for about 1 minute per side, or until golden brown and crispy. If needed, add more oil between batches. Transfer finished tacos to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.

Step 7: Garnish tacos with freshly chopped cilantro if desired. Serve immediately while hot and crispy, with your favorite sauce. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use corn tortillas instead of flour for a more traditional taste and gluten-free option.

Try adding diced jalapeños or a squeeze of lime for extra brightness and heat.

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein alternative.

Serve with sour cream, salsa, or guacamole to enhance the flavor.

FAQs

Can I make the beef filling ahead of time?

Yes, the beef filling can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and refrigerated. Reheat it before assembling the tacos.

What cheese works best for these tacos?

Mozzarella melts beautifully and provides a mild creaminess, but you can also use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for different flavors.