taco meat

Taco Meat

Ground beef is browned and seasoned with chili powder, cumin, garlic, and other spices to create flavorful taco meat. The meat is cooked until fully browned and slightly caramelized, producing a savory, aromatic filling with a rich, layered taste.

During cooking, gentle stirring ensures even seasoning and prevents sticking, while the spices infuse the meat with depth and warmth. The preparation emphasizes proper browning, balanced seasoning, and careful cooking to produce tender, flavorful taco meat suitable for tacos, burritos, or bowls.

Print Recipe
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Beef
Mexican
Servings: 4

Equipment

  • skillet

Ingredients

Taco Meat

  • 1 lb. 80/20 ground beef
  • 1 Tbsp. chili powder
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1 tsp. ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp. ground cumin
  • ½ tsp. smoked paprika
  • ¼ tsp. garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp. onion powder
  • ¼ tsp. crushed oregano
  • ⅛ tsp. cayenne pepper

Seasoning without Chili Powder

  • ½ Tbsp. salt
  • ½ Tbsp. ground black pepper
  • ½ Tbsp. ground cumin
  • 1 Tbsp. smoked paprika
  • ½ Tbsp. garlic powder
  • 1 tsp. onion powder
  • ½ Tbsp. crushed oregano
  • ½ tsp. cayenne pepper

Instructions 

  • Combine spices into a bowl and blend well.
  • Add ground beef to skillet and press out flat.
  • Brown beef on one side, then flip.
  • Crumble beef and add 2 Tbsp. of taco seasoning, or more, to taste.