Go Back
–+ servings

Taco Bell Tacos Recipe

Elaine Gordon
Pairing a great dish can elevate your dining experience. Imagine enjoying homemade Taco Bell tacos alongside crispy tortilla chips and fresh guacamole. Maybe add a tangy salsa verde or a side of Spanish rice.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 12
Calories 230 kcal

Equipment

  • Skillet, Cup

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups tomato juice preferably low-sodium or homemade
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice adds brightness
  • ½ medium white onion finely chopped
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder blend
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika adds subtle smokiness
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic minced
  • ¼ cup yellow cornmeal for thickening
  • 1 pound ground beef 85% lean
  • 12 crispy taco shells or tortillas of your choice
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • Optional Toppings:
  • Shredded iceberg or romaine lettuce
  • Diced ripe tomatoes
  • Sliced avocado or guacamole
  • Finely chopped red or white onion
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Your Meat Mixture

  • In a large skillet, add ground beef over medium heat. As the beef cooks, use a wooden spoon to break it apart. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.

Step 2: Add Aromatics and Spices

  • To the browned beef, add the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onions soften. Then, stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This step is crucial for developing the flavor. Cook for another minute to allow the spices to release their aromas.

Step 3: Incorporate Tomato Juice

  • Pour in the tomato juice and add the lime juice. Stir well and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully. While it simmers, sprinkle the yellow cornmeal and stir to thicken the mixture slightly.

Step 4: Prepare Taco Shells

  • While the meat mixture simmers, preheat the oven according to the package instructions for your taco shells. Once heated, fill each shell with the meat mixture.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Toppings

  • Sprinkle the shredded cheese inside each taco. Return them to the oven for a few minutes until the cheese bubbles and melts. Then, remove them and layer your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • Serve Immediately: Tacos taste best when fresh. Serve them right after assembly for optimal texture.
  • Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to pile on the filling, remember that less is often more to avoid messy situations.
  • Make Ahead: The beef mixture can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.
  • Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your preferences. Add hot sauce for extra heat.
  • Gluten-Free Options: Use corn tortillas or another gluten-free alternative if gluten is a concern.

Nutrition

Calories: 230kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 15gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gFiber: 2gSugar: 3g
Keyword Taco Bell Tacos Recipe
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!