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Taco Bell Meat

Taco Bell Meat

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Author: Laurie Fleming
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 17 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings

Description

Making Taco Bell-style meat at home is easier than you think—and even more delicious when you know exactly what’s going into it. With simple ingredients and bold flavor, this copycat version is perfect for DIY taco nights, busy weeknights, and big family dinners.

Ingredients 

  • 1 lb ground beef, 80/20 or leaner
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup water, or beef broth

Instructions

  • Set the air fryer to 375°F for a few minutes while prepping the meat.
  • In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef and all the seasonings (chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper). Add 1/4 cup of water or broth and mix well to combine.
  • Transfer the seasoned meat mixture to a parchment-lined air fryer basket or tray. Spread into an even layer. Air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, stirring once halfway through to break up the meat and ensure even cooking.
  • Ensure the meat is cooked through (internal temp of 160°F). Stir and let sit a few minutes before serving.
  • Spoon the meat into taco shells, burritos, lettuce wraps, or taco salad bowls!

Equipment

Notes

How to Make Taco Meat on the Stove

  1. Brown the Ground Beef
    Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook for 5–6 minutes, breaking it apart as it browns.
  2. Add Seasonings
    Once the beef is mostly cooked, drain excess grease if needed. Add all the seasonings and 1/4 cup of water or broth.
  3. Simmer
    Stir everything together and let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until the liquid is mostly absorbed and the meat is fully seasoned.
  4. Serve Hot
    Use immediately in tacos, burrito bowls, or nachos!

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 166kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 25gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.4gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 452mgFiber: 1gSugar: 0.2gVitamin A: 621IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 26mgIron: 3mg