Taco Meat Recipe
This homemade Taco Meat Recipe doesn’t have to be complicated. I’ve simplified my original recipe to use fewer pantry spices while keeping the same bold, homemade flavor my family loves. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights and perfect for tacos, burritos, nachos, taco salads, and more.
Want to create the ultimate taco spread? Pair this beef with our famous Rotisserie Chicken Tacos and Chicken Taco Seasoning for a taco bar everyone will remember!
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Not only is this the best recipe on how to make taco meat, but it’s also perfect for meal prep! Make a big batch and store the leftover taco meat in a freezer bag for a quick dinner on busy nights.
You can also use this meat as a taco filling for taco bowls and taco boats. Don’t forget to garnish with tortilla chips and iceberg lettuce for the best taco salad ever!
What you’ll love about this Beef Taco Meat Recipe:
Recipe Updated!
If you’ve made my original taco meat recipe before, don’t worry, we still absolutely love it! It’s been a family favorite for years. Over time, though, I’ve found myself making a simpler version on busy weeknights. By using fewer ingredients and swapping fresh onion for onion powder, I still get that same delicious homemade taco flavor with less measuring and prep. It’s become my go to recipe, and I think you’ll love how easy it is too. Below is the new simplified version.
Recipe Ingredients
You’ll need the following ingredients to make this amazing Ground Beef Taco Recipe:
- Ground beef
- Onion powder
- Chili powder
- Ground cumin
- Garlic powder
- Smoked paprika
- Salt
- Water
INGREDIENT NOTES:
- Ground Beef: I used 80/20 beef for the best flavor, but you can use lean beef also.
- Chili powder: Adds classic taco flavor.
- Ground cumin: Brings warm, earthy flavor.
- Onion powder: Easy onion flavor without chopping.
HOW TO MAKE TACO MEAT RECIPE STEP-BY-STEP:
STEP 1: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess grease if desired.
STEP 2: Add the chili powder, ground cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Stir until the beef is evenly coated.
STEP 3: Pour in the water and stir to combine.
STEP 4: Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid has evaporated and the beef is coated in the seasonings.
Serve in flour tortillas, corn tortillas, or hard taco shells with your favorite toppings.
PRO TIP:
Double the recipe and freeze the leftovers for an easy weeknight meal later.
STORAGE AND REHEATING:
Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It can be kept for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave on high for 1-2 minutes. Add a little water with the homemade seasoning to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
Freezing: This ground beef mixture freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Additions & Substitutions
ADDITIONS:
- Vegetables: Add bell peppers, carrots, or peas for extra nutrition.
- Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top before serving.
- Beans: Add black beans or kidney beans for additional protein and fiber.
SUBSTITUTIONS:
- Ground Beef: Ground turkey or ground chicken can be used as a leaner alternative.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs can be substituted for dried, adjusting quantities to your personal taste.
FAQs about these Ground Beef Tacos:
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork work great with this spice blend. If using turkey or chicken, add an extra tablespoon of beef broth since they’re leaner than beef. Plant-based ground meat works too, just reduce the cooking time slightly.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the spice blend, or stir in diced jalapeños with the onions. You can also add a dash of hot sauce at the end or use spicy chili powder instead of regular.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just use a larger pan and you might need an extra 5 minutes of cooking time. Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
What Can I Serve with these Beef Tacos?
This ground beef taco meat is delicious in soft or hard taco shells with your favorite toppings like cheese, lettuce, and sour cream. It’s also amazing over rice for burrito bowls, stuffed in bell peppers, or loaded onto baked potatoes. For sides, try refried beans, Mexican rice, Velveeta Cheese Dip, or our Fried Potatoes and Onions for a complete meal.
Best Taco Meat Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess grease if desired. 1 pound ground beef.
- Add the chili powder, ground cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Stir until the beef is evenly coated. 1 tablespoon chili powder,1 teaspoon ground cumin,1 teaspoon onion powder,1/2 teaspoon garlic powder,1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika,1/2 teaspoon salt.
- Pour in the water and stir to combine.1/4 cup water.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid has evaporated and the beef is coated in the seasonings.
Notes
Nutrition
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