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Crispy Ground Beef Tacos

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These Crispy Ground Beef Tacos are cheesy, flavorful, and perfectly golden, filled with seasoned ground beef and melted cheese, then pan-fried in flour tortillas until crisp for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound 90/10 ground beef
  • 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1/4 cup water or beef broth, as needed
  • Salt to taste
  • 8 (6-inch) flour tortillas
  • 23 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 45 tablespoons avocado or vegetable oil (divided, for cooking and frying)
  • Fresh cilantro, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat about 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 2–3 minutes.
  2. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until mostly browned, about 4–5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the tomato paste and taco seasoning. Add water or beef broth if needed to prevent dryness. Cook until beef is fully cooked and liquid has mostly evaporated. Season with salt to taste.
  4. Let the filling cool slightly. Place a tortilla flat and sprinkle 1½–2 tablespoons of shredded mozzarella on one half. Add a spoonful of beef mixture, then top with another 1½–2 tablespoons of cheese. Fold the tortilla over to form a taco. Repeat to make 8 tacos.
  5. Heat 3–4 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry tacos in batches for about 1 minute per side or until golden and crispy. Transfer to a rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Notes

  • Substitute mozzarella with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend cheese for more flavor.
  • Flour tortillas crisp best, but corn tortillas can be used if preferred.
  • For extra spice, add diced jalapeños or cayenne to the beef mixture.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in a skillet or 350°F (175°C) oven for best crispiness.
  • Freeze beef filling separately for up to 2–3 months.

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