Ingredients Meat & Poultry Beef Recipes Ground Beef Recipes Easy Beef Tacos 4.1 (28) 3 Reviews By Sarah Carey Sarah Carey Website Sarah is the editorial director of food for Martha Stewart Living. Editorial Guidelines Updated on February 21, 2023 Print Rate It Share Share Tweet Pin Email Yield: 8 There's no secret to how to make tacos, the key is to use a few bold flavors and zesty spices, like chile powder and a touch of cayenne, in your ground beef filling rather than tossing in a store-bought seasoning packet. Sarah Carey's crispy tacos have been a favorite in her family since the 1970s. We include instructions for making your own crispy shells but you can buy them if you prefer. Ingredients 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped 3 cloves garlic, minced ⅓ cup tomato paste (from a 6-ounce can) ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) 4 teaspoons chili powder 1 pound ground beef (80 percent lean) Coarse salt 8 crisp taco shells Lettuce, tomatoes, scallions, cheddar, and lime wedges, for serving Directions In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic and saute until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in tomato paste, cayenne (if using), and chili powder and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add beef and 1 teaspoon salt. Cook, breaking up meat with a wooden spoon, until cooked through, about 7 minutes. Spoon off excess fat. Serve filling in taco shells with toppings. Bryan Gardner Rate it Print