Craving those amazing street tacos but don't have time for a trip to your favorite taqueria? This recipe recreates the deliciousness of Costco's famous street tacos, bringing that vibrant flavor right to your kitchen! It's surprisingly easy, uses readily available ingredients, and is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend fiesta. Get ready for a flavor explosion that's both healthy and satisfying!
Ingredients:
This recipe makes approximately 12 tacos. Feel free to adjust based on your needs.
- For the seasoned beef:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade – see variation below!)
- 1 cup water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- For the toppings:
- 12 corn or flour tortillas (your preference!)
- 1 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- 1 avocado, diced (optional)
- Your favorite hot sauce (optional)
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend) (optional)
Instructions:
Get started:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.
Season and Simmer:
- Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and cover the skillet. Let it simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced and the beef is tender. This slow simmering develops the best flavor!
Warm the Tortillas:
- While the beef simmers, warm your tortillas. You can do this in a few ways: heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds, or even warm them directly on a gas flame for a quick char.
Assemble Your Tacos:
- Fill each tortilla with a generous spoonful of the seasoned beef.
Top it Off:
- Garnish with your favorite toppings! We recommend chopped red onion, cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and diced avocado for a truly authentic experience. Don't forget the hot sauce if you like a kick! Cheese is also a delicious addition.
Tips for Taco Success:
- Homemade Taco Seasoning: For a fresher, more flavorful taco, try making your own seasoning blend. Combine 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tbsp cumin, 1 tbsp paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp oregano, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional), and salt and pepper to taste.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: When browning the ground beef, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will prevent the beef from browning properly and may result in steaming instead of searing. Work in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder taco, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the homemade seasoning or use a milder store-bought blend. For extra heat, add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce!
- Get Creative with Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different toppings. Some other great options include shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, pickled onions, or even a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Nutritional Information (per taco, approximate):
This will vary depending on the ingredients used. This is an estimate using a 1/12th portion of the recipe and assuming moderate toppings.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 12-15g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This Costco-inspired street taco recipe is a simple, delicious, and customizable meal perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!