Budget-Friendly Beef Tacos

Prep:  30 Minutes
Total Time:  30 Minutes
Servings:  5

Ingredient List

  • 1/2 lb ground beef (at least 80% lean)
  • 1 can (15 oz) lentils, rinsed and drained
  • 1 packet (1 oz) Old El Paso™ Original Taco Seasoning Mix
  • 1 box (4.7 oz) Old El Paso™ Stand 'n Stuff™ Taco Shells (10 Count), heated as directed on box

Preparation

  1. In a 10-inch nonstick skillet, cook beef and lentils over medium-high heat for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until cooked through and lentils have broken down into a paste. 

  2. Stir in 2/3 cup water and taco seasoning mix; heat to boiling. Reduce heat; simmer uncovered for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.

  3. Divide taco filling among the heated shells and serve with toppings of choice.

Expert Tips

  • Looking for a cheaper way to make tacos? This Budget-Friendly Beef Taco recipe pairs ground beef with lentils for a satisfying taco night twist.
  • Can’t find canned lentils? Pinto beans will do juuuust fine.

  • Dress those tacos up with shredded cheddar, crisp lettuce, diced tomato, and a dollop of sour cream.

  • Give your sour cream a little extra how-de-do with lime juice and chopped cilantro.

Nutrition

  • 2 Tacos Calories 320 (Calories from Fat 100);  Total Fat 11g (Saturated Fat 4 1/2g ,Trans Fat 0g);  Cholesterol 30mg;  Sodium 610mg;  Potassium 400mg;  Total Carbohydrate 37g (Dietary Fiber 7g ,Sugars 0g);  Protein 17g
  • % Daily Value: Vitamin A 0%;  Vitamin C 0%;  Calcium 6%;  Iron 25%
  • Exchanges: 1/2 Starch;  2 Other Carbohydrate;  1/2 Vegetable
  • Carbohydrate Choice: 2 1/2
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet