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–+ servings

Trader joe's taco recipe

Elaine Gordon
When I think of the perfect complement to Trader Joe's tacos, my mind instantly drifts to a bright, zesty corn salsa. The sweet crunch of corn mingling with lime juice and diced red onions elevates the entire dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 8
Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

  • Skillet

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1.3 oz taco seasoning mix
  • ¼ cup water
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika adds depth and a hint of smokiness
  • 8 soft flour tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
  • 1 ripe tomato diced
  • 1 small red onion finely diced
  • 1 jalapeño minced (adjust for spice preference)
  • 1 cup chopped romaine lettuce
  • 1 tbsp fresh cilantro chopped (adds freshness)

Other Optional Ingredients:

  • Sour cream
  • Salsa
  • Sliced avocado

Instructions
 

Step 1: Brown the Beef

  • Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. You want this nice and browned with a few crispy bits—that’s where the flavor pops.

Step 2: Season the Beef

  • Once the beef is browned, drain excess fat if necessary. Then, sprinkle in the taco seasoning mix and smoked paprika. Pour in the water and stir well. Let everything cook together for about 5 minutes. This lets the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 3: Prepare the Tortillas

  • While the beef simmers, warm your tortillas. You can do this in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for about 15 seconds until soft and pliable.

Step 4: Assemble the Tacos

  • Grab your warmed tortilla and spoon in a generous helping of the seasoned beef. Top it off with your shredded cheese, diced tomato, onion, jalapeño, and lettuce. Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for that extra kick.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

  • Serve the tacos on a platter. Encourage guests to add avocado, salsa, or sour cream on top. The joy is in each personalized creation.

Notes

Here are some tips to make your taco-making experience even better:
  • Use lean beef: Ground turkey or chicken works as great alternatives.
  • Customize the toppings: Feel free to add lime juice for acidity.
  • Don’t skip the resting: Let the beef sit a minute after cooking to keep it juicy.
  • Use fresh ingredients: The fresher the ingredients, the better the flavors.
  • Make it a taco bar: Set out all ingredients separately and let everyone build their own taco.

Nutrition

Calories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 20gFat: 15g
Keyword Trader joe's taco recipe
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