Loaded Beef Tacos – The Ultimate Flavor-Packed Taco Night Winner!
If you love tacos (and honestly, who doesn’t?), these Loaded Beef Tacos are about to become your go-to recipe. They’re juicy, flavorful, and packed with all the best toppings—crispy lettuce, melty cheese, fresh tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime for that perfect tangy finish. Plus, they come together in no time, making them ideal for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.
Tacos have been around for centuries, originating in Mexico as an easy, portable meal. While traditional tacos often feature slow-cooked meats, ground beef tacos have taken over as an American favorite. Why? Because they’re quick, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. Whether you like them spicy, cheesy, or extra crunchy, this recipe lets you load them up exactly how you want.
So, grab your favorite taco shells, season that beef just right, and get ready to enjoy the best homemade tacos ever! Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or just a craving for something delicious, these Loaded Beef Tacos bring all the bold, irresistible flavors you’re looking for.
Recipe Yield: 4 servings
INGREDIENTS
1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
1/4 cup beef broth
3/4 cup diced tomatoes
1 cup shredded lettuce
1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend (cheddar, Monterey Jack)
1/3 cup finely diced red onion
1 tbsp olive oil
2 ½ tbsp taco seasoning
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1 ½ tbsp tomato paste
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp apple cider vinegar
8 small taco shells (hard or soft)
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 lime, cut into wedges
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Cook the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until deeply browned (about 5–7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Season the beef: Stir in taco seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add tomato paste, beef broth, and apple cider vinegar and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef absorbs all the rich, bold flavors.
3. Warm the taco shells: Heat the taco shells according to package instructions. If using soft tortillas, warm them in a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side to enhance their texture.
4. Assemble the tacos: Spoon seasoned beef into each taco shell. Top with shredded lettuce, Mexican cheese, diced tomatoes, red onion, and fresh cilantro. Drizzle with sour cream and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
5. Serve and enjoy: Serve immediately with extra lime wedges and hot sauce on the side!
Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe
- For Ultra-Juicy Beef: The apple cider vinegar + tomato paste + beef broth combo makes the meat deeply flavorful and moist.
- Crispy Taco Shell Hack: Toast hard taco shells at 375°F for 3-4 minutes before filling for maximum crunch.
- Customize the Toppings: Try avocado, pickled jalapeños, cotija cheese, or chipotle sauce for an even bigger flavor boost!
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