Description
This recipe replicates the classic seasoned ground beef used in Taco Bell’s tacos, burritos, and more. It’s perfectly seasoned, soft in texture, and ideal for recreating your favorite fast-food meals at home. Use it in tacos, nachos, quesadillas, or whatever you crave!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend works best)
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp beef bouillon powder (or 1/2 bouillon cube, crushed)
- 1 tsp soy sauce (for umami flavor)
Instructions
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Brown the Beef:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it into very fine crumbles with a spoon or potato masher.
- Cook until the beef is no longer pink, but do not drain the fat.
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Create the Seasoning Mix:
- In a small bowl, combine flour, chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper.
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Add Seasoning to Beef:
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the cooked beef.
- Stir well to coat the meat evenly with the spices.
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Simmer with Water:
- Add water, beef bouillon, and soy sauce to the skillet.
- Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid has reduced and the beef is well-coated in a flavorful sauce.
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Adjust Consistency:
- If the beef is too dry, add a splash more water.
- If it’s too saucy, let it simmer a bit longer.
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Serve:
- Use the meat immediately in tacos, burritos, or your favorite Taco Bell-inspired dishes.
Notes
- Texture Tip: For an authentic fine texture, use a potato masher or a whisk while cooking the beef.
- Make It Ahead: You can make a large batch of the meat and freeze it for up to 3 months. Just reheat and enjoy!
- Versatile Use: This meat works great in tacos, burritos, quesadillas, nachos, or even as a topping for taco salads.