Making the best recipe for classic ground beef tacos at home, is the ultimate way to bring Mexican flavors to your table in just minutes. With this recipe, you’ll achieve flavorful, juicy taco filling every time!
Ingredients for Easy Ground Beef Tacos
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/3 cup beef broth (optional)
- Taco shells or tortillas
Toppings (Optional but Recommended)
- Chopped lettuce
- Shredded cheese
- Diced tomatoes
- Sour cream
- Sliced avocado or guacamole
- Chopped cilantro
How to cook the best ground beef for tacos at home
How long to cook tender ground beef for tacos?
Final Tips for Tender Taco Beef
- Don’t Overcook: Overcooking can make the beef tough. Stop cooking as soon as it’s no longer pink.
- Add Broth or Tomato Paste: A little beef broth or tomato paste adds moisture and depth, keeping the meat tender.
- Season Midway: Seasoning partway through cooking helps the beef absorb flavors fully, especially with methods like slow cooking or pressure cooking.
Each method has its advantages, so pick the one that fits your schedule and preferences. Enjoy those tender taco nights!
Step 1: Cook ground beef
How to cook Ground Beef for Tacos in a Pressure Cooker
If you’re making ground beef taco filling, here’s a quick guide:
- Set the Pressure Cooker to “Sauté” mode. Brown the ground beef for about 5 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks. This step adds flavor and allows you to drain off any excess fat if needed.
- Add Spices and Liquid. Once browned, add your seasonings (chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper) and 1/4 to 1/2 cup of beef broth. Stir everything together.
- Cook on High Pressure. Close the lid and cook on High Pressure for about 5 minutes. This is enough time to infuse the meat with flavor and cook it through.
- Quick Release. Once the timer is up, use a quick release to release the steam.
- Break Up and Serve. Open the lid and break up any larger pieces of beef if needed. Your taco filling is ready to serve!
How to cook Beef Chunks for Tacos?
If you’re using beef chunks instead of ground beef (like for shredded beef tacos), the process is similar, but you’ll need a bit more cooking time:
- Sauté and Season. Sear the beef chunks using the “Sauté” function, then add seasonings and 1/2 to 1 cup of beef broth.
- Cook on High Pressure for 25-30 minutes for tender, shreddable beef.
- Natural Release for 10 minutes, then quickly release any remaining pressure. This helps tenderize the meat fully.
Pressure cooking is a great option for tacos, as it’s fast and infuses the meat with a lot of flavor. Enjoy your tacos!
Cooking ground beef on the stovetop is quick and keeps it tender if done right: 8-10 minutes in a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until no longer pink and the beef reaches a tender, crumbly texture. Season midway and drain excess fat if needed.
How to cook beef chunks for tacos in a crock pot?
Cooking beef chunks for tacos in a Crock Pot (slow cooker) is a great way to prepare a flavorful, tender filling with minimal effort. Slow cooking infuses the beef with spices, giving it a rich, seasoned taste perfect for tacos. This method is ideal if you’re hosting a gathering or want a hands-off cooking experience that lets you focus on other dishes.
1. Brown the Beef (Optional):
Brown the beef in a skillet over medium heat for extra flavor. Drain excess fat, then add to the crock pot.
2. Add Ingredients:
Place the chopped onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper into the Crock Pot with the beef. Add beef broth if you prefer a juicier filling.
3. Cook on Low:
Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, stirring once or twice. Cooking on low allows the flavors to blend perfectly.
4. Break Up and Serve:
Before serving, use a fork to break up any large pieces, then scoop the beef onto taco shells or tortillas.
Tips for Cooking Ground Beef in a Crock Pot
- Choose the Right Beef: 80% lean ground beef works best in the slow cooker, as it retains flavor without excess fat.
- Browning Boosts Flavor: Though optional, browning the beef first reduces fat and intensifies flavor.
- Customize Your Spices: Adjust the spice level to your preference. Add cayenne pepper or jalapeños for more heat, or add extra garlic for a bolder taste.
Common Questions About Crock Pot Ground Beef for Tacos
Can I cook the beef on high instead of low?
Yes, if you’re in a hurry, you can cook the beef on high for 2-3 hours. However, low and slow yields more tender, flavorful beef.
How long can I keep taco meat warm in the Crock Pot?
After cooking, you can set the Crock Pot to “Keep Warm” for up to 2 hours. This is great if you’re serving a crowd and want the meat to stay fresh.
Can I use frozen ground beef in the Crock Pot?
Yes, you can use frozen ground beef, though it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. If you start with frozen beef, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly and make sure to stir occasionally.
If you don’t have a crock pot: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by cooking your ground beef and building that savory flavor base!
1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and begin to break it apart as it cooks.
2. Once the beef starts browning, add the chopped onions. Cook until the onions are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring to release the aroma. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the filling flavorful but not greasy.
Tip: Using 80% lean ground beef gives you the best balance of flavor and texture for a juicy, delicious taco filling.
Step 2
Season the Meat
Adding spices will give your tacos their classic, mouth-watering flavor.
1. Reduce the heat to medium. Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix the spices well into the beef, stirring until the mixture is evenly coated. Let the spices cook for about 2 minutes to deepen their flavor.
Tip: Adjust spices to your taste. For a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
Step 3
Warm the Taco Shells
Preparing your taco shells properly makes a big difference in texture and flavor.
1.Warm hard taco shells in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes if you like them crispy.
2. If using soft tortillas, wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven or on a skillet for a few seconds per side.
Tip: Warming the shells helps prevent cracking and makes them more pliable, especially soft tortillas.
Step 4: Assemble the Classic Ground Beef Tacos
Now it’s time for the fun part—assembling your tacos!
Spoon the seasoned beef mixture into each taco shell or tortilla.
Add your favorite toppings. Classic options include shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, and sour cream. Top it all off with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and a slice of avocado or guacamole.
Tip: For a burst of fresh flavor, squeeze a wedge of lime over each taco before serving!
Pair your tacos with rice, beans, or chips and salsa for a full taco night spread!
