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Chilli Beef Tacos

Chilli Beef Tacos

Chilli Beef Tacos are a quick and flavorful meal combining seasoned ground beef with chili spices, fresh toppings, and warm tortillas. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe offers bold, comforting, and zesty flavors perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners. Customizable with various toppings and protein options, these tacos deliver a satisfying and vibrant eating experience.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Beef Filling

  • 1 lb lean ground beef (about 80% lean)
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 cup water or beef broth

Tortillas & Toppings

  • 8 soft corn or flour tortillas
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Shredded lettuce or cabbage
  • Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Avocado slices
  • Chopped cilantro (optional)
  • Lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beef Mixture: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat to keep the tacos from getting greasy.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic to the beef and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until soft and fragrant, building a savory base for the chili spices.
  3. Combine Spices and Tomato Paste: Stir in chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and tomato paste. Mix thoroughly to coat the beef evenly, letting the spices toast slightly to unlock richer flavors.
  4. Simmer for Flavor: Add a splash of water or beef broth, reduce the heat, and let the mixture simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until thickened and deeply flavorful.
  5. Warm the Tortillas: Gently warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable, perfect for folding without cracking.
  6. Assemble Your Chilli Beef Tacos: Fill each tortilla with a generous spoonful of the beef mixture, then top with your favorite fresh garnishes such as shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, lettuce, sour cream, avocado slices, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for brightness.

Notes

  • Use lean beef to avoid excess grease and keep tacos light and tasty.
  • Don’t skip tomato paste as it boosts umami and thickens the filling beautifully.
  • Simmer slowly to allow spices to infuse and deepen flavors.
  • Warm tortillas properly to prevent breakage and improve texture.
  • Fresh toppings are key for adding crispness and balancing the rich meat filling.

Nutrition

Keywords: chilli beef tacos, quick tacos, beef taco recipe, easy weeknight dinner, Mexican tacos, ground beef tacos