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Power-Tacos with Smoky Meat and Fresh Veggies

These hearty tacos feature flavorful, seasoned ground meat cooked with sautéed onions and bell peppers, all wrapped in warm tortillas. Topped with bright cilantro and lime, they deliver a satisfying combination of smoky, spicy, and fresh textures in every bite. Perfect as a game-day snack or comforting meal, they balance bold flavors with a vibrant, colorful presentation.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef or chicken lean and juicy
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika for smoky depth
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 1 bell pepper bell pepper chopped
  • 4 small tortillas warm and pliable
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1 lime lime cut into wedges
  • 1/2 cup spicy salsa or hot sauce for fiery kick
  • 1 cup cheese optional, shredded or crumbled
  • 1 tbsp oil olive or avocado

Equipment

  • Cast-iron skillet
  • Chef’s knife
  • Tongs
  • Microwave or dry pan
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Heat your cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot and starts to shimmer, about 5 minutes.
  2. While the pan heats, season the ground meat with a pinch of salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, then break it apart with your hands or a spoon to distribute the spices evenly.
  3. Add a splash of oil to the hot skillet and carefully place the meat in, spreading it out to a thin layer. Let it sear without stirring for 2-3 minutes, until it starts to develop a nice brown crust.
  4. Stir the meat with tongs or a spoon, breaking it into smaller pieces, and cook until fully browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. The meat should sizzle and release a savory aroma.
  5. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add chopped onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Stir and cook until they soften slightly, becoming fragrant and tender but still retaining some crunch.
  6. While the filling cooks, warm the tortillas in a dry pan over medium heat or microwave wrapped in a damp cloth for about 20 seconds until soft and pliable.
  7. Once everything is ready, assemble your tacos by spooning the flavorful meat and veggie mixture into the warm tortillas. Top with chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and your favorite spicy salsa or hot sauce.
  8. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese over the hot filling and let it melt slightly before serving.
  9. Serve immediately, garnished with extra lime wedges and cilantro for a fresh, fiery bite.

Notes

For extra smoky flavor, use smoked paprika and a cast-iron skillet. Adjust spice levels with hot sauce or salsa as preferred. Make sure to drain excess liquid from the filling to keep the tacos from becoming mushy.