Easy Grilled Ground Beef Tacos

Grilled ground beef tacos are a delicious and surprisingly simple meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, casual get-togethers, or any time you’re craving a flavorful and satisfying dish. Forget standing over a hot stove – grilling the beef adds a smoky char that elevates the taste, making these tacos truly special. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to create amazing grilled ground beef tacos, from prepping the beef to assembling the perfect toppings.

Choosing the Right Ground Beef

The foundation of any great ground beef taco starts with, well, the ground beef! Selecting the right blend is crucial for achieving both flavor and texture.

Lean vs. Regular Ground Beef

While leaner ground beef (90/10 or leaner) might seem like a healthier option, it can sometimes result in drier tacos, especially when grilled. Regular ground beef (80/20) offers a good balance of flavor and moisture, as the fat renders during grilling, keeping the beef juicy and delicious. If you prefer leaner beef, consider adding a tablespoon or two of olive oil to the mixture to help retain moisture. Another strategy is to avoid overcooking; pulling the beef from the grill just before it appears fully cooked will help prevent dryness.

Ground Chuck: The Gold Standard

For the best flavor and texture, opt for ground chuck. It typically has a fat content of around 80-85%, striking the perfect balance between flavor and juiciness. Ground sirloin, while leaner, can also work if you’re mindful of cooking time. Avoid ground round, as it’s often too lean for grilling and can become tough.

Grinding Your Own Beef

For the ultimate control over flavor and texture, consider grinding your own beef. This allows you to choose the specific cuts you prefer (chuck roast is a great option) and adjust the fat content to your liking. You’ll need a meat grinder attachment for your stand mixer or a dedicated meat grinder.

Preparing the Ground Beef for the Grill

Before hitting the grill, the ground beef needs some love and flavor. A well-seasoned mixture will result in tacos that burst with deliciousness in every bite.

Essential Seasonings and Binders

A simple blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper is the foundation for flavorful taco meat. Adjust the amounts to your personal preference. For a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely diced jalapeno.

To help the ground beef hold its shape on the grill and prevent it from crumbling, consider adding a binder. A beaten egg or a tablespoon of breadcrumbs or crushed tortilla chips can work wonders. Be careful not to overdo it, as too much binder can make the meat tough.

Mixing and Resting

Gently mix the ground beef with the seasonings and binder until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to tough meat. Once mixed, let the beef rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or even better, for an hour or two. This allows the flavors to meld and the binder to work its magic.

Shaping the Patties

There are a few ways to shape the ground beef for grilling. The most common method is to form it into thin, oval-shaped patties, similar to small hamburgers. This allows for even cooking and creates a nice surface area for charring. Another option is to form larger patties and then crumble them after grilling. Alternatively, you can use a grill basket or a cast iron skillet directly on the grill to cook the ground beef in a loose, crumbled form.

Grilling Techniques for Perfect Tacos

Grilling ground beef for tacos is slightly different than grilling a burger. The goal is to achieve a nice sear and smoky flavor without drying out the meat.

Setting Up Your Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F). Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. If using a charcoal grill, create a two-zone fire, with one side having direct heat and the other side having indirect heat. This allows you to move the patties to the cooler side if they start to cook too quickly.

Grilling Time and Temperature

Place the ground beef patties on the hot grill grates and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and have a nice sear. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Avoid pressing down on the patties with a spatula, as this will squeeze out the juices and dry out the meat.

If you’re grilling crumbled beef in a grill basket or skillet, stir it occasionally to ensure even cooking. The cooking time will be similar to that of the patties.

Adding Smoky Flavor

To enhance the smoky flavor, consider adding wood chips to your grill. Hickory, mesquite, or applewood chips work well with ground beef. Soak the wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes before placing them on the coals (for charcoal grills) or in a smoker box (for gas grills).

Resting and Crumbling

Once the ground beef is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat. If you grilled patties, crumble them into smaller pieces using a fork or spatula.

Assembling the Perfect Tacos

With the grilled ground beef ready, it’s time to assemble the tacos. The choice of tortillas and toppings can significantly impact the overall flavor and experience.

Choosing Your Tortillas

Corn or flour tortillas are both excellent choices, depending on your preference. Corn tortillas offer a more authentic flavor and slightly sturdier texture, while flour tortillas are softer and more pliable.

Warm the tortillas before filling them to make them more pliable and flavorful. You can warm them in a dry skillet, over an open flame, or in the microwave (wrapped in a damp paper towel).

Toppings Galore

The possibilities for toppings are endless! Here are some popular and delicious options:

• Cheese: Shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, cotija, or queso fresco
• Lettuce: Shredded iceberg, romaine, or butter lettuce
• Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, or salsa
• Onion: Diced white onion, red onion, or pickled red onion
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro leaves
• Sour Cream or Mexican Crema: Adds a creamy tang
• Guacamole or Avocado: A must-have for many taco lovers
• Hot Sauce: For a spicy kick
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens the flavors

Assembly Tips

Start by layering the grilled ground beef in the warm tortillas. Then, add your desired toppings. Don’t overfill the tacos, as this can make them difficult to eat. A good rule of thumb is to leave about an inch of space at the top of the tortilla.

Beyond the Basics: Creative Variations and Tips

While the classic grilled ground beef taco is delicious on its own, there are many ways to customize and elevate it.

Spice It Up

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely diced jalapeno to the ground beef mixture for a spicy kick. You can also use a spicier chili powder or add a dash of hot sauce.

Add Some Veggies

Mix some finely diced bell peppers, onions, or corn into the ground beef mixture for added flavor and texture. You can also grill these vegetables separately and add them as toppings.

Sweet and Savory

A touch of sweetness can balance the savory flavors of the ground beef. Try adding a tablespoon of brown sugar or honey to the ground beef mixture.

Make it a Bowl

Skip the tortillas altogether and create a taco bowl. Layer the grilled ground beef over rice or quinoa, then add your favorite toppings.

Leftovers

Leftover grilled ground beef can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave before using it in tacos or other dishes. It’s great in quesadillas, nachos, or even as a topping for salads.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the best way to prevent ground beef from sticking to the grill?

A: Ensure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled before placing the ground beef patties on them. Using a high-heat cooking oil like canola or vegetable oil is recommended.

Q: How do I keep my ground beef tacos from being dry?

A: Use ground beef with a higher fat content (80/20), avoid overcooking the beef, and consider adding a binder like an egg or breadcrumbs to help retain moisture.

Q: Can I use a grill pan instead of a grill?

A: Yes, a grill pan can be a great alternative if you don’t have access to a grill. Make sure the pan is preheated and lightly oiled before adding the ground beef.

Q: What kind of cheese goes best on ground beef tacos?

A: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, cotija, and queso fresco are all popular choices. The best cheese depends on your personal preference.

Q: How do I warm tortillas properly?

A: You can warm tortillas in a dry skillet, over an open flame, or in the microwave (wrapped in a damp paper towel). Warming them makes them more pliable and prevents them from cracking.