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Flavorful Taco Bar Recipe Easy Homemade Taco Bar with Fresh Fixings

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A quick and easy taco bar recipe featuring seasoned ground beef and fresh fixings, perfect for gatherings and customizable to suit various dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (85% lean recommended for juiciness)
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) beef broth or water
  • 1 cup shredded iceberg or romaine lettuce
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (vine-ripened preferred)
  • 1/2 cup diced red onion
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
  • 12 limes, cut into wedges
  • 1 avocado, sliced or mashed
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
  • Jalapeño slices (optional)
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt (use dairy-free if preferred)
  • Fresh salsa or pico de gallo
  • Pickled jalapeños or banana peppers
  • Soft corn or flour tortillas (6-8 inches diameter)
  • Optional: black beans, corn kernels, or sliced radishes for extra crunch

Instructions

  1. Prep your ingredients by finely dicing the onion, mincing garlic, chopping cilantro, and cutting tomatoes. Shred the lettuce and cheese, slice the avocado, and cut lime wedges.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil if needed. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  5. Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper over the meat. Stir to coat evenly.
  6. Add tomato paste and mix well.
  7. Pour in beef broth or water and reduce heat to low. Simmer gently for 5 minutes until mixture thickens slightly.
  8. Warm tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat, about 30 seconds per side, or microwave covered with a damp paper towel for 20-30 seconds.
  9. Arrange cooked protein, fresh fixings, cheese, and toppings in separate bowls or platters.
  10. Invite everyone to build their own tacos with their favorite fixings and enjoy.

Notes

Do not overcook the meat to keep it juicy. Add broth if filling seems dry. Season gradually and taste frequently. Warm tortillas just before serving to keep them pliable. Prep toppings ahead of time for easier assembly.

Nutrition

Keywords: taco bar, homemade tacos, ground beef tacos, fresh fixings, easy taco recipe, family dinner, customizable tacos