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Cheesy Beef Tacos
Recipe by Grit & Soul · Save to D!NNER PLAN$
20 minBase: 4 servingsStovetopmexican
Meal History
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Ingredient amounts scale from this recipe's base of 4 servings.
4 people
Ingredients
- ground beefNeed: 1 lb
- taco shellsNeed: 8 count
- cheddarNeed: 1 cupBuy: 1 bag
- lettuceNeed: 2 cup
- tomatoNeed: 2 item
- onionNeed: 0.5 item
- taco seasoningNeed: 1 packet
Instructions
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Before you start
Gather the ingredients and the pan or pot before turning on the heat. These steps keep the cooking efficient while still spelling out the key heat settings, doneness cues, and safe handling details.
Safe temp: Ground meat
160°F · Use a food thermometer
1. Cook the beef
Turn off the burner before draining excess grease into a heat-safe container. Never pour hot grease into the sink. Return the skillet to the burner and continue with the seasoning or sauce.
Ground meat: 160°F. Use a food thermometer and check the middle of the patty or crumble cluster once it is nearly done.
2. Step 2
Add taco seasoning and a splash of water, then simmer briefly. Use the listed pan or pot over moderate heat, stir or turn as needed, and continue until the visual cue in this step is reached.
A simmer uses small steady bubbles, not a hard rolling boil.
3. Step 3
Warm the tortillas or taco shells in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for about 20 to 30 seconds per side, then stack them under a clean towel so they stay flexible.
4. Step 4
Brown the ground meat in a 10- to 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Continue until no raw pink remains and the meat reaches 160°F if checked. Turn off the burner before carefully draining excess grease into a heat-safe container.
5. Finish and serve
Turn off the heat, rest the food briefly if it is hot or saucy, then taste and add the listed toppings before plating. Handle the pan with dry oven mitts.