Taco (regular) Recipe

Prep

Measure spices (chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper). Finely chop onion and mince garlic so they're ready to add while cooking.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and swirl to coat.

Add the chopped onion to the hot skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.

Add the minced garlic and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Increase heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned with no pink remaining, about 6–8 minutes.

Drain excess fat from the pan if desired, leaving a little for flavor (careful when draining hot fat). Return the pan to medium heat.

Stir in 1 tablespoon tomato paste and cook 30–60 seconds to deepen flavor.

Add 1/2 cup water and the prepared spices (2 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp oregano, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper). Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer gently until mixture is saucy and thickened, about 3–5 minutes. Taste and adjust salt or spice level as needed.

Remove from heat and keep warm while you prepare tortillas and toppings.

Warm the tortillas: stack tortillas and wrap in a damp paper towel or clean kitchen towel. Microwave for 30–45 seconds until warm and pliable, or warm individually in a dry skillet over medium heat 20–30 seconds per side until lightly charred spots appear.

Prepare toppings: lay out shredded lettuce, shredded cheese, diced tomato, diced onion, chopped cilantro, lime wedges, hot sauce/salsa, and sour cream for easy assembly.

Assemble each taco: place 2–3 tablespoons of the warm seasoned beef down the center of a tortilla. Top with a small handful (about 1/4 cup) shredded lettuce, 2 tablespoons shredded cheddar, a tablespoon diced tomato, and a teaspoon diced onion. Add cilantro to taste and a squeeze of lime. Add hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Serve immediately while tortillas and filling are warm. Provide extra lime wedges and hot sauce at the table.