Name: Classic Taco Meat
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon oregano; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup tomato sauce or water; 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, if needed)

Description

Discover the ultimate Classic Taco Meat recipe, perfect for any taco night! This flavorful ground beef mixture is seasoned with a blend of chili powder, cumin, and other spices, making it the ideal filling for tacos, burritos, and more. Quick and easy to prepare, this taco meat is customizable with your favorite toppings and can be stored for future meals.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon oregano

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 cup tomato sauce or water

1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, if needed)

Instructions

Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil (if using) over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Brown the Meat: Add ground beef to the skillet with onions and garlic. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Season the Meat: Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the meat evenly with the spices. Pour in tomato sauce or water, stirring to combine. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and sauce to thicken slightly.
Serve: Serve the taco meat hot in taco shells or tortillas. Top with shredded lettuce, cheese, salsa, sour cream, and guacamole.

Notes

For a lighter option, use ground turkey or chicken.

Adjust the heat level by modifying the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or adding hot sauce.

Can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4 servings
Calories: 250 kcal per serving

Keywords: Classic Taco Meat, ground beef taco recipe, easy taco meat, taco night recipe, versatile taco meat