Classic Soft Shell Tacos
These tacos are a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. You can customize them with your favorite toppings!
Ingredients:
- For the seasoned beef:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup water (optional)
- For the tacos:
- 12 warmed soft taco shells (corn or flour)
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- Chopped lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced avocado (optional)
- Sour cream (optional)
- Salsa (optional)
- Cilantro (optional)
- Lime wedges
Cooking Guide:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.
- Add the ground beef to the pan and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and their juices. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until slightly thickened. If the mixture seems too dry, add 1/2 cup of water.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Season with salt and pepper to your preference.
- Warm the tortillas according to package instructions. This can be done in a skillet over medium heat for a few seconds per side, in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel for 30 seconds, or following the instructions on the package.
- Assemble the tacos! Place a spoonful of seasoned beef in each tortilla. Top with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, sour cream, salsa, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
Tips:
- For a spicier taco, add a diced jalapeno pepper to the sauteed vegetables.
- You can substitute ground chicken, turkey, or sausage for the ground beef.
- Make it vegetarian! Use crumbled tofu or lentils instead of ground meat. Saute the tofu or lentils with the vegetables and add your favorite taco seasoning.
- For a fun twist, try using different types of tortillas, such as whole wheat or spinach.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the seasoned beef in a skillet and assemble the tacos when ready to serve.
- Get creative with your toppings! There are endless possibilities, so have fun and experiment.
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