Ground Beef Taco Filling

A simple yet great tasting ground beef mixture, suitable for burritos, tacos, or other Mexican dishes.

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I’ve spent many years of trial and error, trying to find the perfect taco meat recipe. I think I’ve finally achieved it! It’s very simple, which is often the primary component of an excellent recipe. The two primary keys are to break down the meat into tiny pieces and reducing it in seasoned water.

  • Big W Taco Salad
  • Close up of Big W's Taco Salad

This recipe works great for tacos, burritos, taco salad or anything that calls for Mexican-style ground beef.

Ground Beef Taco Filling

Course:
Cuisine:
Difficulty:
Servings
4
servings
Prep time
5
minutes
Cook time
20
minutes
Total time
25
minutes

Ingredients

  • 1.5
    lbs
    ground beef
  • 0.5
    med
    yellow onion
    diced fine
  • 1
    tbsp
    corn meal
  • 1
    tbsp
    chili powder
  • 1.25
    tsp
    ground cumin
  • 0.75
    tsp
    dried oregano
  • 0.75
    tsp
    sea salt
  • 0.5
    tsp
    onion powder
  • 0.5
    tsp
    garlic powder
  • 1
    tsp
    granulated sugar
  • 0.5
    tsp
    smoked paprika
  • 0.25
    tsp
    cocoa powder
  • 1
    cup
    water

Directions

  • In a skillet, cook beef over medium heat, breaking up the meat until achieving a Taco Bell level of refinement. Depending on the fat content of the ground beef you are using, you may need to drain it.

  • Add onion and continue cooking until onions start to brown. It’s okay if you overcook the beef —- in fact, I like to turn up the heat toward the end and get some of it browned real good.

  • Add all remaining ingredients except for the water and combine. Continue cooking for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the seasonings to heat up and release their respective aromas.

  • Stir in water and bring to a light boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 5 to 10 minutes or until the water is mostly evaporated and the mixture is thick and slightly saucy.