Spicy Beef Tacos with Salsa
A quick and flavorful taco dish featuring seasoned ground beef topped with fresh homemade salsa and customizable toppings. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, these tacos balance heat, freshness, and texture for a satisfying meal.
Equipment
- 1 Large skillet For browning the beef and sautéing aromatics.
- 1 Mixing Bowls For preparing salsa and seasoning blends.
- 1 Measuring spoons For precise spice measurements.
- 1 Knife For chopping vegetables and herbs.
- 1 Cutting Board For prepping ingredients safely.
Ingredients
Beef Filling Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) Leaner options like 90/10 can be used for a lighter dish.
- 1 tbsp Olive oil For sautéing onions and garlic.
- ½ cup Finely diced onion Adds depth and sweetness to the filling.
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Enhances savory notes.
- 1 small Jalapeño (seeded and minced) Adjust seeds for desired heat level.
- 1 tbsp Chili powder Provides warmth and color.
- 1 tsp Ground cumin Adds earthy flavor.
- 1 tsp Smoked paprika Offers smoky undertones.
- ½ tsp Dried oregano Introduces herbal freshness.
- ½ tsp Salt Adjust to taste.
- ¼ tsp Black pepper Freshly ground for better flavor.
- 1 tbsp Tomato paste Thickens the sauce and adds richness.
- ¼ cup Beef broth or water Helps develop flavors while simmering.
- 1 Lime (juiced) Brightens the filling after cooking. (Optional)
- 2 tbsp Fresh cilantro (chopped). (Optional)
Salsa Ingredients
- 2 medium Tomatoes (diced) Roma tomatoes work well for less moisture.
- ¼ cup Red onion (finely chopped) Adds sharpness.
- 1 small Jalapeño (seeded and minced) Adjust seeds for spiciness.
- 2 tbsp Fresh cilantro (chopped) Essential for freshness.
- 1 tbsp Lime juice Balances acidity and preserves freshness.
- ½ tsp Sugar (to balance acidity). Optional
Toppings and Sides
- 8–10 small Corn or flour tortillas Warm before serving for flexibility.
- ½ cup Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack). Optional
- ¼ cup Sour cream or Greek yogurt. Optional
- 1 avocado Sliced or mashed into guacamole. Optional
- ½ cup Black beans or refried beans. Optional
Instructions
Step-by-Step Recipe
Prepare the Beef Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and sear until browned (about 5–7 minutes). Drain excess fat but leave 1–2 tablespoons for flavor.
- Stir in diced onion and cook until softened (2–3 minutes). Add minced garlic and jalapeño; cook briefly until fragrant.
- Mix in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toast spices for 1 minute to intensify flavor.
- Stir in tomato paste and beef broth. Simmer until the liquid reduces and coats the beef (about 5 minutes). Finish with lime juice and cilantro if desired.
Make the Salsa:
- In a mixing bowl, combine diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice. Stir gently to mix. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding sugar if needed to balance acidity. Let rest for 10–15 minutes before serving.
Warm the Tortillas:
- Heat tortillas on a skillet or in the oven until soft and pliable. Wrap in a clean towel to keep warm.
Assemble the Tacos:
- Spoon the beef filling onto warmed tortillas. Top with salsa and optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or beans. Serve immediately.
Notes
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- Storage: Store leftover beef filling and salsa separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Freeze beef filling for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat beef filling in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent dryness. Avoid microwaving for best texture.
- Customizations: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based proteins like lentils for dietary preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What ingredients are needed for authentic Mexican spicy beef tacos?
- Ground beef, corn tortillas, onions, garlic, chili peppers, cilantro, tomatoes, lime juice, and salt.
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How can I make a homemade taco seasoning for beef tacos?
- Combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and optional cayenne for heat.
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What is the best way to prepare beef for tacos in a slow cooker?
- Use chuck roast or brisket seasoned with spices and cooked on low for 6–8 hours with onions, garlic, and broth. Shred before serving.
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Can you provide a simple recipe for spicy beef tacos with salsa?
- Brown ground beef with spices, add broth and tomato paste, then simmer. For salsa, mix diced tomatoes, onion, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeño.
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What are some traditional toppings for Mexican beef tacos?
- Chopped white onion, fresh cilantro, radishes, lime wedges, and salsa varieties like pico de gallo or salsa verde.
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How do you ensure the beef is flavorful and tender in taco recipes?
- Choose fatty cuts or ground beef, season generously, and avoid overcooking. Finish with fresh lime juice or salsa for brightness.
Tips & Tricks
- Flavor Enhancement: Toast spices briefly in oil to release their aroma. Use fresh lime juice and cilantro for vibrant flavor.
- Presentation: Arrange toppings in small bowls for a DIY taco bar experience. Garnish plates with lime wedges and extra cilantro.
- Leftovers: Use leftover beef filling in burritos, quesadillas, or taco salads for versatile meals.
Plating and Garnishing
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped cilantro, crumbled queso fresco, or sliced radishes over assembled tacos.
- Serving Style: Serve tacos family-style on a large platter with bowls of salsa and toppings for guests to customize. Pair with Mexican rice or black beans for a complete meal.
- Sides: Offer grilled corn, tortilla chips with guacamole, or a simple salad for variety.