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Ground Beef Taco Meat

Quick and flavorful seasoned ground beef perfect for tacos, bowls, or nachos.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder optional
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions

  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the ground beef to the hot skillet and break it up with a spatula.
  • Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef, then sprinkle in salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), ground cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  • Stir to combine all ingredients and continue cooking, breaking up any remaining large pieces, until the beef is no longer pink.
  • Reduce heat to medium and simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid has cooked off and the flavors are melded.
  • Remove from heat and serve the taco meat in tacos, bowls, or as desired.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • spatula or wooden spoon
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days.
  • To freeze, cool completely and transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
  • Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  • Reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals until hot.