Crispy Beef Tacos
These Crispy Beef Tacos are an easy weeknight dinner made with seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and crispy corn tortillas. They can be baked or pan-fried and are perfect for taco night any day of the week.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- ¾ cup yellow or white onion small diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 4 teaspoons cumin
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- As Needed pepper
- ½ teaspoon chipotle powder or cayenne powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3 tablespoons water
- 4 cups shredded cheese such as cheddar, Mexican blend or queso fresco
- 16-20 soft corn tortillas
- As Needed olive oil or any neutral tasting oil
I always use Kosher salt in my kitchen! If using table salt, start with half the amount and adjust to taste, as it is much "saltier" by volume.
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium high heat begin browning the meat. Crumbling as it cooks. Once the meat is halfway through cooking add in the onions and continue cooking until done.
- Add in the garlic, cook for 30 seconds then remove from the heat and drain off the fat.
- Return the meat to the skillet, over medium-low heat, then stir in the tomato paste and water. Once the tomato paste and water have been fully incorporated add in all of the seasonings. Stir to combine. Remove from the heat.
- Preheat an oven up to 400°F. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper and brush with olive oil. Place the tortillas in a damp towel, cover completely, and warm in the microwave for 20 seconds. Flip and microwave for 20 more seconds.
- Brush one side of a tortilla with olive oil, place that side down on the prepared pan. Place some of the beef mixture and shredded cheese on one side of the tortilla, fold over, press down gently and repeat until all of the meat and cheese are used.
- Place in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. Remove from the oven and carefully flip each taco. Place back in the oven and bake for another 8-10 more minutes. Serve with your favorite toppings. Enjoy!
Notes
If you want extra crispiness, and have a little more time on your hands, pan-frying is a great option. Here is the process:
- Heat a thin layer of oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the filled tacos in batches, flipping once, until golden and crisp on both sides. More oil will need to be added to the skillet after each batch.
- Place on a paper towel lined plate before serving.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!