Dinner · mexican
Taco Night Shortcut
Taco night is already one of the most forgiving dinners you can make, and this version keeps it that way. Brown a pound of ground beef or turkey, stir in Old El Paso taco seasoning, and the meat is done in ten minutes flat. Everything else is a toppings bar that the kids assemble themselves.
How to make it
Brown ground meat in a skillet over medium-high heat, about 8 minutes.
Drain fat, add taco seasoning and a splash of water, stir to combine.
Warm canned black beans in the microwave.
Set out tortillas, cheese, beans, and toppings on the table.
Let everyone build their own tacos.
Open a can of 365 Whole Foods black beans or Trader Joe's canned pinto beans as a bonus protein, warm them for two minutes, and set the whole spread on the table: shredded Mexican blend cheese from a bag, salsa from a jar, sour cream, avocado slices, and shredded lettuce if anyone wants it. Old El Paso stand-and-stuff shells work well for small kids who are still learning the fold. Siete grain-free tortillas are a solid gluten-free swap.
Skip the meat entirely and go all-in on seasoned beans for a vegetarian version. Pre-cooked fajita chicken strips from the freezer section also work if you want zero stovetop time. Lay everything out and let kids load their own tacos; they eat more when they build it themselves.
Need tonight's dinner handled?
Playful Parents knows your family — what's worked before, how much energy everyone has — and suggests one specific meal. Not a list. One.
Try Playful Parents free →Times are approximate. Adjust to your stove and your kids.