Description
This recipe for Taco Bell taco meat recreates the signature fast-food flavor at home — perfectly seasoned, finely crumbled, and slightly saucy. It’s quick, budget-friendly, and ideal for tacos, burritos, nachos, or meal prep nights.
Ingredients
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1 lb ground beef (80/20 or 90/10)
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1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
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2 teaspoons chili powder
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1 teaspoon ground cumin
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
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½ teaspoon cocoa powder (optional)
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½ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
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1 teaspoon cornstarch or masa harina
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½ cup beef broth or water
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1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
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1 teaspoon tomato paste (optional)
Instructions
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Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart into fine crumbles with a spatula or potato masher.
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Once the beef is browned, reduce the heat and stir in all the spices, tomato paste, and cornstarch.
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Pour in the broth and vinegar, stirring well to coat the meat evenly.
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Simmer on low for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and clings to the meat.
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Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot in tacos, burritos, or nachos.
Notes
For a leaner version, use ground turkey or plant-based crumbles.
If the meat looks too watery, cook uncovered for a few more minutes.
Add a pinch of sugar or cocoa for a richer flavor balance.
Make a double batch and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approx.)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg