I’ve been making this easy taco meat recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s a simple recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
I love how it can be customized to fit any occasion, whether it’s a casual Tuesday dinner or a special occasion like a birthday party. My kids have grown up eating this recipe, and now they’re the ones who request it the most.
It’s also great for meal prep, as you can make a big batch on the weekend and use it throughout the week in different meals. One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it in tacos, burritos, salads, or even just as a side dish.
The key to this recipe is using lean ground beef and cooking it slowly over low heat to bring out the best flavor. This process helps to break down the meat and makes it tender and juicy.
I also appreciate that this recipe is relatively healthy compared to other taco recipes out there – by using lean ground beef and limiting the amount of cheese and oil used, you can make a version of this recipe that’s suitable for even the pickiest eaters. Plus, you can customize it to fit your dietary needs by adding extra veggies or spices.
Over time, I’ve tweaked this recipe to make it my own, and I’m excited to share it with you today.
Easy Taco Meat
4.6 from 1481 votes
This simple taco meat recipe uses ground beef and a homemade spice blend for a quick weeknight dinner. It comes together in under 30 minutes with ingredients you likely have on hand.
1Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent.
3Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it apart with a wooden spoon.
4Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned and no longer pink, with an internal temperature of 160°F.
5Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, then pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer.
7Reduce heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid has evaporated and the meat is coated in a thick, flavorful sauce.
For a milder version, reduce chili powder to 2 teaspoons. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef, adjusting cooking time as needed.
Watch Video Of How Easy Taco Meat Works
This easy taco meat recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a party or just need something quick and easy after work.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how well it stores – simply refrigerate or freeze leftovers for up to 3 days and reheat when needed.
You can also repurpose leftover taco meat into different meals throughout the week – try serving it over rice or using it as a topping for salads.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Taco Meat
Q: What type of meat should I use for this recipe?
A: You can use either ground beef or ground turkey for this recipe – just make sure to choose lean ground meat so that your tacos aren’t too greasy. If you prefer to use beef, look for 90% lean or higher.
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?
A: Yes, you can definitely make this recipe ahead of time! In fact, letting the flavors meld together for at least 30 minutes will really allow the flavors to develop. Simply store the cooked taco meat in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Q: How do I keep my taco meat from becoming too dry?
A: To prevent dryness, make sure not to overcook your taco meat – cook it until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) but no longer. Also, try adding a little bit of water or broth towards the end of cooking if you notice that your mixture is getting too dry.
Q: Can I add other ingredients like beans or vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize your taco meat however you like – add some black beans for extra protein or chopped bell peppers for extra flavor.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
A: Yes, this recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free – perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
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