These beef tacos are the ultimate weeknight favorite, featuring a perfectly seasoned homemade filling that comes together in minutes. I love making this easy taco recipe with simple ingredients for a meal that feels both comforting and fresh. It’s the perfect centerpiece for a relaxed taco night with family or friends.

I developed this classic beef tacos recipe after years of exploring the vibrant street food markets from Mexico City to Texas. The smell of seasoned beef sizzling in a hot skillet always takes me back to those bustling plazas, where the simplest ingredients create the most memorable meals. This particular version has become my family’s go-to for casual gatherings, especially when paired with a side of my 7-layer dip or quick sheet pan quesadillas.

There’s something truly special about building your own taco exactly how you like it. I often set up a toppings bar with fresh salsa, shredded lettuce, and grated cheese, letting everyone customize their perfect bite. The rich, savory aroma of this beef taco filling simmering on the stove has a way of bringing everyone to the kitchen, making even a simple Tuesday night feel like a celebration.

Why This Beef Taco Recipe Works

• Authentic Flavor: Using my homemade taco seasoning blend creates depth you can’t get from packets.
• Quick Preparation: From pan to table in under 30 minutes for busy weeknights.
• Family Favorite: Consistently wins over even the pickiest eaters at my table.
• Meal Prep Friendly: The filling keeps beautifully for easy lunches throughout the week.

Everything You Need for Perfect Beef Tacos

Be sure to see the recipe card below for the full listing of ingredients, instructions, notes, and estimated nutritional information.

Homemade Vanilla Custard

Learn how to make delicious homemade vanilla custard with our easy recipe. Perfect for dessert with family and friends!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

4 hours hrs

Total Time 4 hours hrs 25 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine International

Servings 4 servings

Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

• medium saucepan
• mixing bowl
• whisk
• wooden spoon
• fine-mesh strainer
• measuring cups
• measuring spoons

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 cups whole milk
• 0.5 cup heavy cream
• 0.5 cup granulated sugar
• 0.25 tsp fine sea salt
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Instructions

 

• In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the whole milk, heavy cream, half of the sugar, and the salt. Heat the mixture, stirring occasionally, until it is steaming and small bubbles form around the edges, about 5 minutes.
• While the milk mixture heats, vigorously whisk the egg yolks and remaining sugar in a separate medium bowl until the mixture is pale yellow and slightly thickened, about 2 minutes.
• Gradually pour about 1 cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture in a slow, steady stream, whisking constantly to temper the eggs and prevent them from scrambling.
• Pour the entire tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until the custard thickens and coats the back of the spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
• Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately stir in the vanilla extract. Pour the custard through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean bowl to remove any cooked egg bits, ensuring a perfectly smooth texture.
• Place plastic wrap directly on the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until completely chilled and thickened.

Notes

Let dough rise in a warm oven (off) for faster proofing.

Keyword custard, homemade, vanilla

Creative Ways to Customize Your Tacos

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of chipotle powder to the filling.
• Cheesy Delight: Stir a handful of shredded cheese into the warm filling before serving.
• Vegetable Boost: Sauté bell peppers or zucchini with the onions for extra nutrition.

My Secrets for Perfect Taco Night

• Brown Thoroughly: Cook the beef until properly browned for maximum flavor development.
• Season Well: Taste and adjust seasoning after adding the broth and tomato sauce.
• Simmer Gently: Let the filling simmer for at least 10 minutes to meld flavors.
• Warm Tortillas: Heat shells briefly to make them pliable and enhance their corn flavor.

How to Keep Your Tacos Fresh

• Store: Keep filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze cooled filling in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm filling in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the filling up to two days ahead for easy assembly.

Frequently Asked Questions