Hard-Shell Tacos

Sure! Here’s a classic recipe for Hard-Shell Tacos — crispy corn taco shells filled with seasoned ground beef and topped with all your favorite fixings. Quick, easy, and always a hit!

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🌮 Classic Hard-Shell Tacos

Ingredients:

Taco Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade blend — see below)

• 2/3 cup water

• Salt and pepper to taste

Taco Shells & Toppings:

• 8–10 hard corn taco shells (store-bought or homemade)

• Shredded lettuce

• Diced tomatoes

• Shredded cheddar cheese

• Sour cream

• Salsa or taco sauce

• Sliced jalapeños (optional)

• Chopped cilantro (optional)

• Lime wedges (optional)

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Homemade Taco Seasoning (optional):

• 1 tbsp chili powder

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1/2 tsp dried oregano

• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions:

1. Cook the beef:

   • In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until beef is browned and onions are softened (about 5–7 minutes).

   • Drain excess fat.

2. Add seasoning:

   • Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.

   • Add taco seasoning mix and water.

   • Simmer until liquid reduces and mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.

   • Taste and adjust salt and pepper.

3. Warm taco shells:

   • Follow package instructions to warm shells (usually 3–5 minutes in the oven at 375°F/190°C).

   • For homemade, fry corn tortillas in hot oil until crisp and golden.

4. Assemble tacos:

   • Spoon seasoned beef into each shell.

   • Top with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, salsa, and any other desired toppings.

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Tips:

• For extra crunch, add chopped radishes or jicama slaw.

• Use ground chicken or plant-based meat for variations.

• Double the batch to freeze filling for quick meals.

Want a recipe for homemade hard taco shells or soft flour tortillas too?