Go Back

5-Star Tacos with Homemade Guac & Pico

Level-Up your taco night with these flavorful ground beef tacos, featuring homemade guacamole, pico de gallo, and a refreshing cilantro-lime crema. This meal is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

  • Ingredients
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • Corn tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded lettuce
  • 3 1/2 cups diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup shredded Mexican-blend cheese
  • 1 Bag of tortilla chips
  • 3 ripe avocados
  • 1/2 cup red onion finely chopped
  • 2 jalapeños seeded and minced (optional)
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
  • Juice of 2 limes divided
  • 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 teaspoon honey optional
  • Pickled red onions
  • Lime wedges
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Instructions

Instructions

  • Make the Guacamole:
  • In a medium bowl, mash 3 ripe avocados with a fork until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion, 1 jalapeño (seeded and minced, optional), 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, and the juice of 1 lime. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
  • Prepare the Cilantro-Lime Crema:
  • In a small bowl, combine 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt, the juice of 1 lime, 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh cilantro, and 1 teaspoon honey (optional). Season with salt to taste, mix well, and refrigerate until needed.
  • Prepare the Pico de Gallo:
  • In a bowl, combine 2 cups diced tomatoes, 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion, 1 jalapeño (seeded and minced, optional), 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, and the juice of 1 lime. Season with salt to taste. Mix well and set aside.
  • Prepare the Toppings:
  • Shred 2 cups of lettuce, dice 1 1/2 cups of tomatoes, and set aside 1 cup shredded Mexican-blend cheese along with pickled red onions and any remaining cilantro leaves.
  • Fry the Tortillas for Crispy Shells:
  • Heat avocado or vegetable oil in a small skillet until the oil is about 1/2 inch deep and reaches 350°F (about 5–7 minutes).
  • Line a plate with paper towels.
  • Carefully place a tortilla in the hot oil and cook until it blisters but remains soft (about 10–15 seconds).
  • Using tongs, flip the tortilla and immediately fold it into a taco shell. Continue frying until crisp and golden all over (another 15–30 seconds).
  • Cook the Taco Meat:
  • In a large skillet over medium-high heat, drizzle a little oil and sauté the diced onion and red bell pepper for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  • Add 1 lb lean ground beef and break it up with a spatula. Cook until browned (about 5 minutes).
  • Drain any excess liquid.
  • Stir in 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, and 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano.
  • Add 1/3 cup water and let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes until the water is mostly absorbed and the beef is well coated with the spices. Remove from heat.
  • Assemble the Tacos:
  • In each tortilla shell, layer the seasoned ground beef, shredded cheese, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, a dollop of homemade guacamole, and a drizzle of cilantro-lime crema. Garnish with pickled red onions, fresh cilantro leaves, and a squeeze of lime juice if desired.
  • Serve:
  • Enjoy your tacos with a side of tortilla chips, salsa, and extra guacamole.

Notes

Notes
Flour Tortillas: Warm them in a skillet for 30 seconds per side or microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel for 20 seconds before serving.
Crunchy Shells: If you prefer, opt for pre-made crunchy taco shells to save time.
Taco Holders: Consider using stainless steel taco holders to help maintain the shell shape when frying and assembling.
Additional tips include trying your favorite flour, gluten-free, or crunchy tortilla variations to best suit your taste.
Enjoy your delicious 5-Star Tacos!