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The Best Ground Beef Taco Meat Recipe

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4.1 from 10 reviews

This ground beef taco meat recipe is a versatile and flavorful staple, perfect for tacos with soft tortillas, crispy shells, nachos, enchiladas, or lettuce wraps. Made with a blend of aromatic spices and cooked in a skillet, this recipe yields savory, seasoned beef ready in just 30 minutes. It’s easy to double and freeze for quick weeknight meals.

  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

For the Taco Meat:

  • 1 lb ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed, for leaner beef)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Spices:

  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Other Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1/4 cup beef or chicken broth (or water)
  • 1 tsp lime juice

Instructions

  1. Mix Spices: In a small bowl, combine 2 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp dried oregano, ½ tsp onion powder, ¼ tsp garlic powder, ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional), and salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Set aside.
  2. Heat Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium heat. If using lean ground beef, add 1 tbsp olive oil to prevent sticking.
  3. Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary.
  4. Add Onion and Garlic: Stir in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and turns translucent.
  5. Add Spices: Sprinkle the mixed spices over the beef mixture. Stir thoroughly to evenly coat the meat with the seasoning.
  6. Add Tomato Paste and Broth: Stir in 1 tbsp tomato paste, ensuring it coats the beef evenly. Pour in 1/4 cup beef or chicken broth (or water) and mix well. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly and meld flavors.
  7. Finish with Lime Juice: Stir in 1 tsp lime juice for a tangy kick. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper as needed. Remove from heat and serve.

Notes

  • If you don’t have lime juice, substitute with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar.
  • Double the recipe and freeze any leftovers for quick meals. Reheat frozen meat on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen before serving.

Find it online: https://cheftinaskitchen.com/the-best-ground-beef-taco-meat-recipe/