Classic beef tacos

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until fully browned, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add finely chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, approximately 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Sprinkle chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper over the beef mixture. Stir thoroughly to coat evenly.

Pour in tomato sauce and water. Stir to combine, reduce heat to medium-low, and let simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.

While beef simmers, heat tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until soft and pliable.

Spoon beef mixture onto warmed tortillas. Garnish with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and optional toppings. Serve with lime wedges.