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Flavorful Taco Meat Recipe 5 Easy Steps for Perfect Seasoned Ground Beef

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A quick and easy recipe for perfectly seasoned ground beef taco meat with a smoky, spicy, and savory flavor profile. Ideal for taco nights, family dinners, and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
  • 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) beef broth or water
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Heat the pan over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive or vegetable oil. Let it warm until shimmering, about 1 minute.
  2. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the ground beef to the pan. Break it into small chunks with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until no pink remains and the meat is nicely browned with some crispy bits.
  4. Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir well to coat the meat evenly with spices.
  5. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor. Pour in beef broth or water. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes or until the liquid is mostly absorbed and the mixture is thick and saucy.

Notes

Use fresh spices for best flavor. Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure proper browning. If mixture seems dry, add a splash more broth. For leaner beef, add more oil or broth to keep meat juicy. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for 3 days or frozen for 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: taco meat, seasoned ground beef, taco recipe, easy taco meat, ground beef tacos, Mexican cuisine, quick dinner