Juicy & Flavorful Taco Meat
This easy homemade taco meat recipe comes together in just 15 minutes and delivers juicy, flavorful results every time.
Servings 4 Servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef 90% - 80% lean
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon table salt
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ cup water
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess fat.
- While the beef cooks, stir together the spices in a small bowl.
- Reduce the heat to medium. Add the seasoning mix, tomato paste, and water to the cooked beef. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has reduced and the beef is evenly coated in the flavorful sauce.
- Spoon the taco meat into warm tortillas or use it for burritos, nachos, quesadillas, or taco salads.
Notes
Ground Beef: Higher fat ground beef (80–85%) will give you juicier, more flavorful taco meat, while leaner ground beef (90–95%) is less greasy.
Adjust Spice Level: This taco seasoning blend is mild. For medium heat, add ¼ teaspoon chipotle chili powder or cayenne pepper. For hot, use ½ teaspoon.
Nutrition
Serving: 1Serving | Calories: 263kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g
