Description
This Taco Bell-inspired meat recipe offers a flavorful, juicy ground beef mixture seasoned with a blend of spices and tomato paste, perfect for tacos, burritos, nachos, or salads. Ready in just 20 minutes, this homemade version captures the classic taste with easy-to-follow steps using simple skillet cooking.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/4 cup water (adjust for desired consistency)
Spices
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional for added sweetness, like Taco Bell’s taste)
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- Add the Onion: Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet with the beef. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent, which adds sweetness and texture.
- Mix in the Spices: Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and optional sugar. Stir well to combine the spices with the meat and cook for about one minute to allow the flavors to bloom and become fragrant.
- Add Tomato Paste and Water: Stir in the tomato paste thoroughly, then gradually add the water a little at a time, mixing until you reach a thick but pourable sauce consistency. Simmer the mixture for an additional 5 to 10 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully.
- Taste and Adjust: Sample the meat mixture and adjust seasoning as needed—more salt, chili powder, or cumin can enhance the taste according to your preference.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve your Taco Bell-inspired meat in taco shells, burritos, nachos, or as a savory topping for salads. Enjoy the homemade experience that captures the flavor you love!
Notes
- Using ground beef with 80/20 fat content ensures juiciness without being too greasy.
- Drain excess fat after browning the beef to keep the dish balanced.
- The optional sugar mimics the slight sweetness found in Taco Bell’s signature meat flavor.
- Adjust water quantity to get the sauce to your preferred thickness.
- This recipe works equally well with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
