This easy ground beef Taco Meat Recipe is truly one of the best. An easy no-fuss taco seasoning and tomato sauce create the juiciest, most flavorful taco meat in 20 minutes.
Mix: If you don't already have taco seasoning prepared, combine chili powder, minced garlic, ground cumin, minced onion, oregano and red pepper flakes together in a small bowl.
Taco Meat
Heat: Heat a large cast-iron skillet or stainless steel pan over medium heat. If using stainless steel, add a tablespoon of avocado or extra virgin olive oil.
Brown: Add ground beef and break it and cooking until thoroughly cooked and browned, approximately 6-8 minutes.
Season: Add taco seasoning, salt and tomato sauce over the meat, reduce heat to low. Stir to combine, breaking up the diced tomatoes if using.
Simmer: Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until slightly thickened and moisture absorbs into the meat, approximately 3-4 minutes.
Taste: Taste for salt and add if necessary. Enjoy immediately in tacos, salads, or nachos.
Notes
Storage: Store leftover taco meat in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 6 days. If you anticipate not consuming the leftovers within that time, it's best to freeze it for up to 3 months to extend shelf life.To reheat: Transfer the refrigerated meat to a small saucepan with a lid. Add a few tablespoons of water or broth, cover, and heat on low-medium. Stir and break up the meat until warmed through, then remove from heat promptly.Helpful tips:
Use room-temperature beef - Pull the meat from the fridge and let it come to room temperature for 30 minutes.
Start with a hot pan - Heat your cast iron skillet or stainless steel pan for a few minutes first before adding the meat. This will help it cook and brown properly.
Brown properly - Don't disturb the meat as it cooks and browns, only occasionally when necessary. Stir and give time to brown again.
Season last - Salt pulls moisture and creates steam and will produce rubbery, dry taco meat. Instead, wait until the ground beef has been browned to add seasonings and tomato sauce.
Use minced garlic and onion - When re-hydrated from the tomato sauce and ground beef, these small flakes of alliums create amazing flavor and texture. I would not suggest subbing them with powdered garlic and onions.
The information shown above is an estimate provided for your convenience by an online calculator. It should not be considered as a substitute for a professional nutritionist's advice. Please see our complete Nutritional Information Disclaimer.