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Taco Meat Recipe

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4 from 12 reviews

This flavorful Taco Meat recipe features lean ground beef simmered with a perfectly balanced blend of spices including chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Quick to prepare in just 25 minutes, this versatile seasoned beef is perfect for tacos, taco salads, wraps, or meal prepping for later use.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely diced

Seasoning Mix

  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • ½ tablespoon cumin
  • ½ tablespoon salt
  • ½ tablespoon onion powder
  • ½ tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

Additional Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon water

Instructions

  1. Heat skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the ground beef and onions.
  2. Cook beef and onion: Add the lean ground beef and finely diced onion to the skillet. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring often, until the onions are translucent and the beef is thoroughly browned.
  3. Drain excess fat: Remove excess fat from the pan by pouring it off or absorbing it with a paper towel to prevent greasy meat.
  4. Prepare seasoning and mix: In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. Add one tablespoon of this seasoning mixture to the beef along with the tomato paste and water. Stir well to combine and taste. Adjust seasoning by adding more if desired. Reserve leftover seasoning for future use.
  5. Serve or store: Use the seasoned taco meat immediately in tacos, taco salads, or wraps. Alternatively, refrigerate or freeze for later meals.

Notes

  • Adjust the level of seasoning to your preference by tasting and adding more if desired.
  • For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
  • This recipe can be made with ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative.
  • Leftover taco meat stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Serve with fresh toppings like shredded lettuce, cheese, salsa, and avocado for a complete taco meal.