The Best Homemade Tacos Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
These homemade tacos are perfect for dinner, a cozy family night, or even a fun meal with friends. They’re easy to make and packed with flavors everyone will enjoy.
- You’ll love how fresh and customizable they are—pick your favorite toppings to make them just right for you.
- The recipe uses simple ingredients, so you won’t spend hours searching for odd items at the store.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s quick to prepare, leaving you more time to relax and enjoy your meal.
Recipe

Homemade tacos are a versatile and flavorful dish that can be customized to suit any taste. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal, this recipe uses simple ingredients to create delicious tacos everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or chicken
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 12 small tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup salsa
Instructions
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef or chicken until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Add the taco seasoning and water to the skillet. Stir well and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Warm the tortillas in the microwave or on a skillet.
- Assemble the tacos by placing the meat mixture in the center of each tortilla.
- Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, and salsa.
Notes
Customize toppings with avocado, jalapeños, or cilantro for added flavor. Vegetarian options include substituting meat with black beans or grilled vegetables.
Equipment
Skillet, spatula, measuring cups
Time
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Cuisine
Mexican
Serving
Serves 4
Nutrition
Here’s the nutritional breakdown for homemade tacos based on a standard recipe.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 |
| Protein | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade tacos with simple sides like Mexican rice or a fresh corn salad, but sometimes I’ll even throw in some crispy tortilla chips for extra crunch. A cold glass of horchata or a zesty margarita makes the meal feel extra special, though lemonade works just as well if I’m keeping it kid-friendly. Trust me, the right sides and drinks can turn taco night into something unforgettable.
Side Dishes for Tacos
When you’re serving up a plate of homemade tacos, the right side dishes can turn a good meal into something truly special. I love pairing mine with cilantro-lime rice—it’s fresh, zesty, and so easy to make. A simple black bean salad adds protein and color, while grilled street corn (elote) brings smoky, cheesy goodness. Don’t forget the guacamole and chips for crunch! If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll whip up a tangy slaw or roasted sweet potatoes. These sides balance the tacos perfectly, making every bite more exciting. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Perfect Drink Pairings
Every taco night’s got to have the perfect drink to match, and I’ve found that the right pairing can really elevate the whole experience. For something invigorating, I love icy-cold Mexican sodas or a squeeze of lime in sparkling water. If I’m feeling fancy, a tangy margarita with a salted rim does the trick—just don’t forget the lime wedge! Beer fans can’t go wrong with a crisp lager or a light pilsner, balancing the spices beautifully. For non-alcoholic options, agua frescas like watermelon or hibiscus are colorful, fun, and delicious. Cheers to taco perfection!