Place ground beef in a medium pan and cook over medium-high heat until browned. My husband uses a meat chopper when cooking taco meat. After meat has cooked place a colander or strainer over a bowl and put cooked meat in strainer to drain fat. Put meat back into pan and discard fat in a disposable container.

Add spice packet, spices, water and salsa to cooked ground beef and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered until liquid has reduced.

While the taco meat is simmering grate cheese, dice tomatoes and slice lettuce thin. If making refried beans start warming up that now too. Warm taco shells according to directions on packaging.

Try serving your tacos on a taco plate or use festive taco holders. They help to keep your tacos standing tall without falling over and losing all your goodies. Build your taco your way and enjoy!