The Ultimate Beef Tacos: A Homestyle Mexican Feast

A Family Favorite Straight from the Skillet

Discover the perfect blend of seasoned ground beef, crispy tortillas, and fresh toppings that will transport your taste buds to a classic Mexican kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Taco Beef Blend

  • Ground Chuck: 1 pound (454 g)
  • Refried Beans: 1/2 can (120 g)
  • White Onion: 1/2, diced
  • Hatch Chilies: 1 (4 oz/113 g) can

Taco Seasoning Blend

  • Kosher Salt: 1 tablespoon (18 g)
  • Garlic Powder: 2 teaspoons (6 g)
  • Chili Powder: 2 teaspoons (4 g)
  • Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon (3 g)
  • Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon (1 g)
  • Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon (2 g)

For Serving

  • Flour or Corn Tortillas: 6-8
  • Shredded Jack Cheese: 1 cup (112 g)
  • Homemade Pico de Gallo
  • Sour Cream or Guacamole

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beef
    • Heat skillet over medium heat
    • Brown ground chuck, breaking apart while cooking
    • Drain excess grease
    • Add diced onion and taco seasoning
    • Cook 2-3 minutes until onions soften
  2. Add Beans and Chilies
    • Stir in refried beans
    • Mix until fully combined
    • Add hatch chilies
    • Cook 2-3 more minutes
    • Remove from heat
  3. Prepare Tortillas
    • Heat cast-iron skillet over medium heat
    • Toast tortillas on both sides until golden brown
    • Sprinkle shredded jack cheese on one side
    • Add beef mixture
    • Fold tortilla in half
  4. Crisp the Tacos
    • Cook 1-2 minutes per side
    • Ensure cheese melts and exterior becomes crispy
  5. Serve
    • Garnish with fresh pico de gallo
    • Add sour cream or guacamole on the side

Nutritional Information

  • Calories: 380 per serving
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Servings: 4-6

Cooking Pro Tips

  • Use cast-iron skillet for best heat distribution
  • Drain beef thoroughly to prevent soggy tacos
  • Toast tortillas just before filling
  • Adjust seasoning to taste

Recipe Variations

  • Use ground turkey for leaner option
  • Try different cheese varieties
  • Add black beans for extra protein
  • Make vegetarian with plant-based crumbles

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make these ahead of time? A: Prepare beef mixture in advance, assemble just before serving

Q: Gluten-free options? A: Use corn tortillas and check seasoning ingredients

Q: How to store leftovers? A: Store beef mixture and components separately

Q: Can I make it spicier? A: Add extra chili powder or fresh jalapeños

Q: Best tortillas to use? A: Depends on preference – both corn and flour work well

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve immediately while hot and crispy
  • Pair with Mexican rice or beans
  • Great for family dinners or casual gatherings

Enjoy these mouthwatering Beef Tacos that bring the flavor of home-style Mexican cooking to your table!