Jack In The Box Taco Meat Recipe
Description
Make your own Jack in the Box taco meat at home with this copycat recipe! Get that greasy, crispy, crave-worthy flavor using pantry staples and a few fast-food tricks.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef, 70/30 or 80/20 – You want the fat for that signature texture
- ½ cup refried beans
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper, optional, for heat
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 tbsp taco sauce or mild salsa, adds moisture + flavor
- Optional add-in: 1 tbsp of beef tallow or lard
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until mostly cooked through. Don’t drain the fat—this is fast food, baby.
- Stir in the refried beans, all spices, water, and taco sauce. Mix until completely combined and smooth.
- Lower the heat and simmer for about 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently. You want it thick but still moist—almost like a paste.
- Add more salt or chili powder to taste. Want it spicier? Hit it with cayenne or a splash of hot sauce.
- Spoon into crispy taco shells (the flatter, the better), top with a slice of American cheese, shredded lettuce, and a squirt of hot sauce—just like the real deal.
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Spatula
Nutrition
Serving: 1ServingCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 17gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 47mgSodium: 362mgPotassium: 275mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 116IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 17mgIron: 2mg