Description
A quick, flavorful, and versatile Taco Meat recipe that transforms simple ground meat into a delicious taco filling. Ready in under 30 minutes, this family-friendly dish is perfect for tacos, burritos, salads, and more, with options to customize for dietary preferences and taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground meat (beef, turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternative)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup water or broth
Optional Variations
- Crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper (for extra heat)
- Fresh chopped cilantro and lime (for a Mexican-inspired twist)
- Smoked paprika and chipotle chili powder (for smoky flavor)
- Crumbled tofu, lentils, or textured vegetable protein (for vegetarian options)
- Fresh salsa or diced tomatoes (as tomato paste alternative for low-carb)
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Measure out the spices so everything is ready for quick cooking.
- Brown the Meat: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground meat and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add chopped onions to the skillet and cook until soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for about one minute to release its aroma.
- Season the Meat: Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat the meat evenly with the spices.
- Add Tomato Paste and Liquid: Stir in tomato paste, then add water or broth. Lower heat and simmer until slightly thickened and the meat is juicy.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the Taco Meat and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove from heat when ready to serve or customize further.
Notes
- Use fresh spices for the best flavor, such as freshly ground cumin and chili powder.
- Cook meat in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan and to achieve better browning.
- Drain excess fat after browning for a leaner and cleaner tasting filling.
- Allow the meat to simmer slowly to help the spices meld beautifully.
- Experiment with different ground meats like pork, chicken, or lamb for new flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (approx. 4 oz)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: taco meat, ground beef taco, easy taco filling, Mexican recipe, quick dinner, family-friendly, gluten free taco
