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Crispy Beef Tacos

Crispy Beef Tacos Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 (makes 8 tacos)
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
  • ½ small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning or 2 tbsp homemade
  • 8 corn tortillas (6-inch)
  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
  • Vegetable oil for cooking
  • Shredded lettuce, sour cream, and salsa for serving
  • Lime wedges (optional)

Method
 

  1. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef, onion, and a pinch of salt. Cook, breaking up the meat, until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, cook 1 minute, then add the taco seasoning and 2 tbsp water. Simmer until the liquid nearly evaporates, 2 to 3 minutes.
  2. Microwave the tortillas wrapped in a damp paper towel for 30 seconds until pliable. Spoon 2 to 3 tbsp of beef and a sprinkle of cheese onto half of each tortilla, then fold over and press gently.
  3. Wipe the skillet, return to medium heat, and add enough oil to coat the bottom (about 2 tbsp). Fry the folded tacos in a single layer, about 2 minutes per side, until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels.
  4. Gently open each taco with a butter knife and stuff with lettuce, sour cream, and salsa. Serve hot.

Notes

If your tortillas are especially thin, fry them for a slightly shorter time to prevent burning. The filling can be made a day ahead and reheated when you’re ready to assemble and fry.