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Homemade Easy Copycat Taco Bell Soft Taco Recipe (Better Than The Original) photo
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Easy Copycat Taco Bell Soft Taco Recipe (Better Than The Original)

A simple, quick copycat of Taco Bell's soft taco with seasoned ground beef and classic toppings.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Servings: 12 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 tablespoon masa harina
  • 4 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon dried minced onion
  • 1/2 teaspoon beef bouillon powder
  • 1 1/3 pounds ground beef chuck
  • 12 white tortillas (6–8 inches)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 head iceberg lettuce, shredded about 3 cups
  • 2 roma tomatoes, diced
  • 3/4 cup sour cream optional

Instructions

  • In a small bowl, combine masa harina, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, seasoning salt, paprika, cumin, garlic salt, sugar, dried minced onion, and beef bouillon powder; stir until evenly mixed.
  • Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and crumble in the ground beef. Cook, stirring and breaking up the meat, until fully browned.
  • Drain excess grease by transferring the browned beef to a colander, then return the beef to the skillet.
  • Add the prepared spice mix to the skillet with the beef and pour in 3/4 cup to 1 cup water; stir to combine.
  • Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer the beef mixture for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most moisture has evaporated but the meat is still moist; remove from heat.
  • Warm a clean skillet over medium heat. Place each tortilla in the skillet for about 30 seconds per side until warmed and pliable.
  • Stack warmed tortillas and keep them covered with a towel to retain heat while you finish assembling tacos.
  • Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the seasoned beef onto each tortilla, then top with shredded lettuce, shredded cheddar, and diced roma tomato. Add sour cream if desired.
  • Repeat to assemble remaining tacos and serve immediately with your favorite taco sauce.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • small bowl
  • Colander
  • Spatula
  • Towel
  • Measuring spoons
  • measuring cups

Notes

  • Use a nonstick skillet to reduce sticking while browning meat.
  • Adjust water between 3/4 and 1 cup to control sauciness.
  • Keep tortillas covered with a towel to stay warm and pliable.
  • Sour cream is optional and can be omitted if desired.