Last Night we had Ground Beef Tacos

Unfortunately, I didn't take a picture of them. But, they were pretty standard stuff. this is my go-to meal when I just can't think about food. It's fast. It's simple. Everyone loves them.

Simple Ground Beef Tacos
1 1/2 - 2 lbs ground beef, browned and drained (This leaves enough for leftover nachos the next day for lunch)
Homemade seasoning (recipe to follow)
Shells of your choice. We like fajita shells or small thin corn hard shells
Shredded cheese of your favorite variety (don't be afraid to try something unusual like Monteray Jack)
Store-bought Taco Sauce (If you are in the mood, make homemade)
1 can Black Beans

To your cooked ground beef, add the spices and about 2/3 C. of water. Simmer until the water absorbs, about 5-10 minutes. In another sauce pan, warm up the beans.

When the meat and beans are ready, build the tacos in any way you want. The vegetarian kid makes cheese nachos or rummages around the fridge for something else. Some nights he's just on his own!

Taco Seasoning Spice
(I honestly don't remember where I got this recipe, but it's taped inside my spice cabinet, I use it that much!)
2 Tbsp. Chili Powder
3 Tsp. Cumin
1Tsp. Salt
2 Tsp. Black Pepper
1 Tsp. Paprika
1/2 Tsp. Garlic Powder
1/2 Tsp. Onion Powder
1/2 Tsp. Oregano
1/2 Tsp. Red Pepper Flakes (or to taste)

In a small plastic container, combine all the ingredients and shake to mix. The "official" recipe says to use 3 Tbsp. per pound of ground beef, but I use all this for 1 1/2-2 pounds. There's no need to make up a bunch and keep it on hand, since it's so easy to make as you need it. I keep the container in the spice cabinet with "Taco Spices" written on top so it's always ready to go!

This is the doubled recipe, but I don't double the salt. With all these flavors, it's not necessary to use too much salt. If you double this recipe, you'll have to experiment with how much salt is too much for your tastes.