A quick and easy taco night favorite made with homemade seasoning, juicy ground beef, and all your favorite toppings. Perfect for busy weeknights.

For the taco meat:

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 pound lean ground beef

2 teaspoons chili powder

2 teaspoons cumin

½ teaspoon oregano

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons tomato paste

½ cup water

For serving:

8 corn or flour tortillas

Lettuce, finely chopped

Shredded Mexican cheese blend or cheddar cheese

Tomatoes, chopped

Red onions, chopped

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Stir in chili powder, cumin, oregano, garlic powder, salt, pepper, tomato paste, and water.

Cook over medium-low heat for 3–5 minutes until sauce thickens and flavors are well combined.

Serve the seasoned beef warm in tortillas. Top with lettuce, cheese, tomatoes, red onions, or other desired toppings.

Storage: Leftover taco meat can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying.

Freezing Instructions: Let the taco meat cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers or ziplock bags for up to 3 months.

Substitutions:

Use tomato sauce in place of tomato paste + water.

Paprika can be used instead of chili powder.