Description
This Taco Bell Meat recipe recreates the iconic seasoned ground beef filling served in Taco Bell tacos and burritos. Made with ground beef, a blend of Mexican-inspired spices, tomato paste, and a touch of sweetness, this dish delivers a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and slightly tangy flavors. Ready in just 20 minutes and yielding 4 servings, it’s a simple and delicious way to bring the fast-food favorite right into your kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/4 cup water (adjust for desired consistency)
Spices
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional for added sweetness)
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to avoid greasiness.
- Add the Onion: Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet with the beef. Cook together for another 3 to 4 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent, blending their sweetness with the meat.
- Mix in the Spices: Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and optional sugar. Stir well to combine and cook for about 1 minute to let the spices bloom and release their aromas.
- Add Tomato Paste and Water: Stir in the tomato paste evenly throughout the meat mixture. Gradually add the water little by little, stirring constantly until you reach a thick but pourable sauce consistency. Simmer the mixture for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the seasoned meat and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, chili powder, or cumin to enhance the flavor according to your preference.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Taco Bell-style meat as a filling for taco shells, burritos, nachos, or as a tasty topping for salads to enjoy an authentic homemade fast-food experience.
Notes
- For juicier meat, use 80/20 ground beef as recommended.
- Adjust water quantity slightly to achieve your preferred sauce thickness.
- The optional sugar adds a subtle sweetness reminiscent of Taco Bell’s signature flavor.
- Drain excess fat after browning to reduce greasiness.
- Make sure to toast the spices for at least one minute to maximize flavor.
- Serve immediately for best taste, or refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
