Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mexican Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps offer a fresh and flavorful alternative to traditional tacos, combining seasoned ground beef with crisp lettuce leaves for a lighter, low-carb option. These wraps are quick to prepare, customizable with your favorite toppings, and perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner without sacrificing bold Mexican flavors.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beefoniongarlicchili powdercuminpaprikasmoked paprikaoreganoSalt and peppertomatodiced bell pepperlime juicefresh cilantroromaine or butter lettuce leavesavocado (optional)shredded cheese (optional)sour cream (optional)

directions

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.

Drain excess fat if needed, then add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until softened.

Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Add diced tomato and bell pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes until vegetables are tender and flavors meld.

Squeeze in fresh lime juice and stir in chopped cilantro.

Separate and rinse lettuce leaves. Pat dry.

Spoon the beef mixture into each lettuce leaf.

Top with avocado, shredded cheese, or sour cream if desired.

Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes

Variations

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

Add black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor.

Top with fresh salsa or jalapeño slices for added spice.

Use iceberg lettuce for extra crunch.

Serve with a side of rice or cauliflower rice for a more filling meal.

storage/reheating

Store the beef mixture separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.Reheat the beef in a skillet or microwave before serving.Refrigerate washed lettuce in a separate container lined with paper towels to maintain crispness.Assemble wraps just before eating to keep lettuce fresh.

FAQs

Can I make these wraps ahead of time?

You can prepare the beef filling in advance, but assemble the wraps just before serving to prevent sogginess.

What kind of lettuce works best?

Romaine, butter lettuce, or iceberg all work well—choose based on your texture preference.

Are these wraps spicy?

They’re mildly spiced, but you can adjust heat by adding more chili powder or hot sauce.

Can I freeze the beef mixture?

Yes, the cooked beef mixture freezes well for up to 2 months.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your spices and toppings are gluten-free.

Can I add rice to the filling?

Yes, adding cooked rice can stretch the filling and make it heartier.

Are these wraps good for meal prep?

Absolutely. Store components separately and assemble when ready to eat.

Can I use taco seasoning instead of individual spices?

Yes, about 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning can replace the listed spices.

Can kids eat this?

Yes, it’s a fun and healthy finger food that’s easy to customize for picky eaters.

What other toppings can I use?

Try diced onions, chopped olives, salsa, or hot sauce for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Mexican Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps are a fast, flavorful, and healthy meal choice packed with protein and fresh ingredients. Ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep, they offer the rich taste of tacos with a lighter twist. Give them a try and enjoy a satisfying meal that’s both wholesome and delicious.