Mexican Beef Tacos

By: Nagi

Published: November 2, 2018

Updated: March 11, 2024

Let’s Talk Beef Tacos!

Beef Tacos! The classic old-school way with ground beef. Picture juicy, seasoned beef and crispy shells full of flavor. Want to use tortillas? Go for it—no judgment here!

Not Quite Authentic, But Still Delicious!

Real talk: You won’t find ground beef tacos in Mexico. Authentic ones use sliced steak, thin strips of marinated beef, or slow-cooked shredded beef. But ground beef tacos? Super popular everywhere else. In millions of homes. And they’re just as loved. So, let’s enjoy them for what they are!

My Secret? Bake Them!

Here’s how I do my beef tacos—I bake them. Why? Melty cheese and crispy shells. It’s simple. Would you rather have a cold cheese slice, or gooey cheese oozing out of a grilled sandwich? Exactly.

Whip Up Your Own Taco Seasoning

Skip the store packets! It’s easy and better for you. Garlic, onion, cumin, paprika, oregano, and maybe a bit of cayenne for a kick. Simple spices—none of those weird ingredients.

Making the Beef Mix

This recipe works for 10 to 12 tacos. Just beef and onion. Want more nutrition? Throw in some veggies like bell peppers, corn, or black beans. All good things.

Classic Taco Toppings

Classic is the way to go: shredded cheese, taco sauce if you like, lettuce, tomato, onion, and maybe a dollop of sour cream. No need for fancy stuff. Tex-Mex all the way.

More Topping Ideas

• Guacamole or avocado slices
• Pico de gallo or smooth salsa
• Any hot or taco sauce you love

See How It’s Done

Watching helps. Check out the video to see how I make these tasty tacos—old-school style!

Old-School Beef Tacos

Author: Nagi

Ingredients

• 10 to 12 crispy taco shells or soft tortillas
• For the Beef Filling:
  • 1 tbsp oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1/4 cup water
• Homemade Taco Seasoning:
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 2 tsp cumin
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Toppings:
  • Shredded cheese
  • Shredded lettuce
  • 2 chopped tomatoes
  • 1/2 chopped onion
  • Sour cream
  • Taco sauce (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: 180°C/350°F.
2. Cook the Beef: Heat oil in a skillet. Cook garlic and onion for 2 minutes. Add beef and cook until browned. Stir in seasoning.
3. Add tomato paste and water. Cook until the beef is juicy.
4. Bake (Optional): Place taco shells in a pan, add beef, top with cheese. Bake for 5-7 minutes.
5. Enjoy: Serve hot with toppings on the side. Let everyone enjoy assembling their own taco creation!