Easy 5-Ingredient Beef Tacos Recipe for Quick Delicious Flavor
A quick and simple recipe for flavorful beef tacos using just five main ingredients, perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 packet (or 2 tbsp homemade) taco seasoning (chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika)
- 8–10 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (240 ml) fresh salsa or pico de gallo
- Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish
- Optional: sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Optional: avocado slices or guacamole
Instructions
- Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes.
- Add 1 lb (450 g) ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula or wooden spoon and cook for 6-8 minutes until browned.
- Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sprinkle taco seasoning evenly over the beef. Add 1/4 cup (60 ml) water and stir to coat.
- Simmer for 3-4 minutes until sauce thickens and beef absorbs the seasoning.
- Warm tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds per side or wrap in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds.
- Assemble tacos by spooning beef onto tortillas, topping with 2 tablespoons (30 g) shredded cheddar cheese and a generous dollop of salsa or pico de gallo. Add optional toppings if desired.
- Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
Do not rush browning the beef to develop caramelized edges for better flavor. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming. Warm tortillas properly for best texture. Adjust seasoning and water as needed to avoid dry or too wet beef. Taste before serving and add salt or lime juice if desired. Leftover beef can be stored refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 2 tacos per se
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 25
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 22
Keywords: beef tacos, easy tacos, quick dinner, 5-ingredient recipe, taco seasoning, weeknight meal, Mexican food