Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Chilli Beef Tacos

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings (about 2 tacos per person)
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stove-top
  • Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

A vibrant, family-friendly Chilli Beef Tacos recipe with spiced ground beef, fresh toppings, and zesty lime. Ready in 30 minutes and perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.


Ingredients

  • Ground Beef: 500g
  • Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
  • Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
  • Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
  • Chilli Powder: 2 teaspoons
  • Ground Cumin: 1 teaspoon
  • Paprika: 1 teaspoon
  • Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons
  • Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
  • Water or Beef Stock: 100ml
  • Taco Shells or Tortillas: 8 pieces
  • Shredded Lettuce: 1 cup
  • Diced Tomato: 1 cup
  • Grated Cheddar Cheese: 3/4 cup
  • Lime Wedges: for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat Your Equipment: Warm a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil.
  2. Combine Ingredients: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and translucent. Add the ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink.
  3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Drain excess fat if desired. Stir in the tomato paste, chilli powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper until the meat is evenly coated with spices.
  4. Assemble the Dish: Pour in the water or beef stock, stir, and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat and let the mixture cook for 5 to 7 minutes until it thickens and coats the beef.
  5. Cook to Perfection: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chilli powder if needed. Let the filling simmer briefly so flavors meld, then remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes to retain juices.
  6. Finishing Touches: Warm the taco shells or tortillas in a dry skillet or wrapped in a damp towel. Prepare toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomato, and grated cheese while shells warm.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Fill each shell or tortilla with a portion of the chilli beef, then top with lettuce, tomato, and grated cheddar. Serve with lime wedges and enjoy immediately.

Notes

  • Toast shells lightly before filling for extra crunch.
  • Balance the heat with a squeeze of lime or a dollop of sour cream.
  • Make ahead: Cook the beef mixture a day in advance and reheat with a splash of water to refresh.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (about 2 tacos)
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 550 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg

Keywords: chilli beef tacos, taco recipe, weeknight dinner, quick dinner, Mexican-inspired, family meal, taco filling