Taco Bell Meat Recipe
Introduction
This Taco Bell meat recipe delivers flavorful, seasoned ground beef that’s perfect for tacos, burritos, or nachos. With simple pantry spices and a rich tomato base, it’s easy to make and tastes just like your favorite fast-food favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon beef bouillon paste
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Step 1: Add ground beef to a large skillet over medium heat. Cook until browned, using a meat chopper or potato masher to break the meat into very small pieces as it cooks.
- Step 2: Add the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, paprika, cumin, beef bouillon paste, tomato paste, sugar, and water to the skillet. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
- Step 3: Continue cooking, breaking the meat apart as necessary, until most of the liquid is absorbed, about 5 minutes.
- Step 4: Use the seasoned beef as desired in tacos, burritos, or your favorite Mexican dishes. Enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce to the mixture.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Use beef broth instead of water for a richer taste.
- If you prefer, add diced onions or bell peppers while browning the meat for extra flavor and texture.
Storage
Store any leftover seasoned beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze the cooked meat for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply omit the all-purpose flour or replace it with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to help thicken the mixture.
Can I prepare the meat ahead of time?
Absolutely. The seasoned beef can be cooked ahead, stored in the fridge, and reheated when ready to use, making it perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight meals.
PrintTaco Bell Meat Recipe
This Taco Bell Meat Recipe is a quick and flavorful ground beef filling perfect for tacos, burritos, or nachos. Ground beef is seasoned with a blend of spices, tomato paste, and beef bouillon for an authentic and savory taste that mimics the signature Taco Bell seasoned beef.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: About 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients
Meat Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon beef bouillon paste
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Place the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the meat, using a meat chopper or potato masher to break it into very small pieces. Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and no pink remains.
- Add Seasonings and Simmer: Add the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, paprika, cumin, beef bouillon paste, tomato paste, granulated sugar, and water to the skillet with the browned beef. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Cook Until Thickened: Bring the mixture to a simmer. Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring occasionally and breaking up the meat further if needed, until most of the liquid is absorbed and the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Serve: Once the meat mixture has thickened, remove it from heat and use as desired for tacos, burritos, or nachos. Enjoy your flavorful Taco Bell style meat.
Notes
- Using a meat chopper or potato masher helps achieve the signature small, crumbly texture of Taco Bell seasoned beef.
- You can adjust the spice levels by increasing or decreasing chili powder and cumin according to taste.
- For a lower fat option, use lean ground beef (90% lean or higher).
- This meat mixture can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
- All-purpose flour helps thicken the sauce; for gluten-free, substitute with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
Keywords: Taco Bell meat recipe, seasoned ground beef, taco filling, Mexican ground beef, taco meat
