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Simple Cilantro-Lime Beef Tacos - Bright, Fresh, and Weeknight Easy

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 for flavor and moisture)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for leaner beef)
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (regular paprika works too)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • Juice of 1 to 2 limes (start with 1, add more to taste)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for topping)
  • 8–12 small corn or flour tortillas
  • 2 tablespoons water or beef broth (to help blend spices)
  • Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, diced red onion, sliced jalapeños, shredded lettuce, crumbled cotija or shredded cheese, sour cream or crema, avocado or guacamole, pickled onions, extra lime wedges

Method
 

  1. Warm the tortillas. Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Warm each tortilla for 30–45 seconds per side until soft and a little charred. Wrap in a clean towel to keep warm.
  2. Sauté the aromatics. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil (if using). Add the diced onion and cook 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Brown the beef. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook 5–7 minutes until browned. If there’s a lot of grease, drain excess fat, leaving about a tablespoon for flavor.
  4. Add spices. Sprinkle in cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the beef. Add 2 tablespoons water or broth to help the spices bloom and create a light sauce. Simmer 1–2 minutes.
  5. Add lime and cilantro. Turn off the heat. Stir in lime zest, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Taste and adjust with more salt or lime if needed. The flavor should be bright and savory.
  6. Assemble the tacos. Spoon the beef into warm tortillas. Top with more cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and any of your favorite toppings.
  7. Serve immediately. These are best hot, with extra lime wedges on the side.