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Perfect copycat of the original!|Kids absolutely love this version!|Tastes exactly like Taco Bell!|Super easy weeknight dinner win!|Better than the drive through!|Made tacos amazing last night!|Simple ingredients, incredible authentic flavor!|Will never buy packets again!
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Featured
Beef Recipe
Learn how to make Taco Bell's famous seasoned beef recipe at home! This quick and easy recipe shows you how to cook perfectly spiced ground beef with simple ingredients. Ready in minutes, this copycat recipe delivers authentic flavors every time.
Prep
10 mins
Cook
15 mins
Serve
6
Kcal
180
<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">450g lean ground beef (80/20 blend)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">240ml water</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp chili powder</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tbsp paprika</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp ground cumin</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp garlic powder</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp onion powder</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp dried oregano</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 tsp salt</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/4 tsp black pepper</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tbsp tomato paste</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp cornstarch</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp vegetable oil</li></ul>
<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4> Heat the vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers and moves freely around the pan, you know it's ready for the beef.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4> Add the ground beef to the hot pan, breaking it up immediately with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently and breaking up any large chunks until the meat is completely browned and no pink remains. You want small, fine crumbles rather than large chunks.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4> While the beef cooks, combine all the dry spices in a small bowl: chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if using. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4> Once the beef is fully browned, drain any excess fat from the pan, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Add the tomato paste and stir it into the meat for 30 seconds until fragrant and well incorporated.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4> Add the spice mixture to the beef and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until the spices become fragrant and coat every piece of meat evenly. The mixture should smell aromatic and slightly toasted.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4> In a small cup, whisk the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of the water until completely smooth with no lumps. Pour this slurry along with the remaining water into the beef mixture.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4> Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce heat to low. Simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has reduced and the mixture has thickened to a saucy consistency that coats the beef. The texture should be moist but not soupy.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4> Taste and adjust seasoning if needed - add more salt for depth, chili powder for warmth, or a pinch of sugar if the mixture tastes too sharp. Remove from heat and let it rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. The beef is now ready to use in tacos, burritos, nachos, or any Mexican-inspired dish you fancy.</li></ol>
FAQ for
Beef Recipe
What ingredients are used in Homemade Taco Meat from this recipe?
The recipe uses 450g ground beef, water, chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, cayenne, tomato paste, cornstarch, and vegetable oil for authentic Mexican flavours.
How to cook Homemade Taco Meat from this recipe at home?
Learn how to cook Homemade Taco Meat by browning ground beef in oil, adding spices and tomato paste, then simmering with water and cornstarch until thickened. The entire process takes about 15-20 minutes for perfectly seasoned Mexican-style beef.
What's the best fat content for ground beef in Mexican taco meat?
An 80/20 ground beef blend is ideal for taco meat as it provides enough fat for flavour and moisture whilst not being overly greasy. The fat helps carry the spices and creates a tender, juicy texture.
How long should you simmer taco meat for the best texture?
Simmer taco meat for 8-10 minutes on low heat after adding water. This allows the liquid to reduce and thicken whilst the spices meld together, creating a saucy consistency that coats the beef perfectly.
Can you make taco seasoning from scratch instead of using packets?
Yes, homemade taco seasoning tastes much better than shop-bought packets. Combine chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and salt for an authentic, preservative-free blend.
The calorie count is an approximation and can vary based on exact measurements and specific ingredients used. Always consult nutritional information if strict adherence to calorie counts is required. This recipe is inspired by the flavours of this restaurant's dishes and has been independently developed for home cooking. It is not an exact match to the proprietary recipe used by the restaurant. This website is not affiliated with or endorsed by the restaurant.