Delicious Ground Beef Taco Recipes for Taco Tuesdays

Are you searching for the perfect ground beef taco recipes to spice up your Taco Tuesday traditions? Whether you're hosting a gathering or just craving that authentic Mexican flavor, there's nothing quite like the comfort of warm, seasoned beef tacos. In this extensive guide, we'll walk you through not one, but several delicious recipes that will make your taco nights memorable.

Traditional Ground Beef Tacos

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or make your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and paprika)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ¹⁄₂ cup water or beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Hard or soft taco shells
• Fixings: chopped tomatoes, shredded lettuce, grated cheese, sour cream, salsa, and lime wedges

Steps:

1. Brown the beef: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Add aromatics: Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet, cooking until translucent.
3. Season: Stir in the taco seasoning and water or broth. Simmer for 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
4. Prep your tacos: Warm the taco shells in the oven. Layer your beef mixture with desired toppings.

🍲 Note: If you're using hard shells, it's a good idea to preheat them to keep them crisp.

Spicy Chipotle Ground Beef Tacos

For those who love a bit of heat, these chipotle tacos will not disappoint.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2-3 canned chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¹⁄₄ cup beef stock
• Cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: crema or sour cream for topping

Steps:

1. Brown the beef, just like in the traditional recipe, but set some fat aside to build flavor.
2. Add onions and garlic, cook until soft.
3. Mix in the chipotle peppers, cumin, and smoked paprika, then pour in the beef stock. Let simmer to reduce.
4. Serve with your favorite taco fillings.

Avocado Crema Ground Beef Tacos

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 2 avocados, ripe
• Juice from 1 lime
• ¹⁄₄ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
• Cilantro, finely chopped

Steps:

1. Cook the ground beef as usual, add taco seasoning.
2. Make the avocado crema: Blend avocados, lime juice, yogurt, and cilantro until smooth.
3. Layer your tacos with beef and avocado crema, along with other toppings of your choice.

🥑 Note: The avocado crema can also be used as a dip for chips or spread for other Mexican dishes.

Beer-Braised Ground Beef Tacos

For a unique twist, braising your ground beef in beer brings a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can of Mexican beer (like Corona or Modelo)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon each of chili powder, cumin, and oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps:

1. Brown the beef and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until soft.
3. Add beef back, pour in beer, stir in tomato paste and spices. Simmer until beer reduces, and the beef is tender.
4. Assemble your tacos with your favorite toppings.

These recipes offer a variety of flavors, allowing you to mix up your Taco Tuesday routine. From the simplicity of traditional tacos to the heat of chipotle, the creaminess of avocado, or the rich depth of beer-braised beef, your palate will be excited every week.

Can I freeze the ground beef taco filling?

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Yes, you can freeze the taco filling. Cool it completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be kept for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating and using.

What can I substitute for beef in these recipes?

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Consider using ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based substitute like Beyond Meat for a vegetarian twist. Adjust seasonings as needed since these alternatives have different flavor profiles.

How do I prevent my taco shells from getting soggy?

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To keep taco shells crisp, warm them in the oven just before serving. Also, ensure the beef filling is well-drained and not overly wet before adding it to the shell.

Are there any healthier options for these taco recipes?

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Yes! Use lean ground beef or healthier meat alternatives, opt for whole grain or low-carb taco shells, and load up on fresh veggies. Also, you can reduce salt by making your own seasoning or using spices with no added salt.

What can I serve as sides with these tacos?

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Common sides include Mexican rice, refried beans, elote (Mexican street corn), guacamole, or a fresh salsa. For a light side, consider a simple salad with a citrus dressing.