Taco Bell Taco Meat for Soft or Hard Shells

Recreate the bold, savory flavor of Taco Bell at home with this easy recipe for Taco Bell Taco Meat, perfect for both soft and hard taco shells. Featuring ground beef simmered to perfection with a custom seasoning blend of chili powder, paprika, cumin, and a hint of granulated sugar, this recipe delivers the signature balance of spice and umami everyone loves. The addition of beef bouillon powder creates a rich, meaty base, while flour and water combine to form a deliciously thick sauce that coats the taco meat in every bite. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a versatile option for taco nights or meal preps, easily customizable with toppings like shredded cheese, fresh tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream. Bring fast food-inspired flavor straight to your kitchen with this crowd-pleasing taco meat recipe!

Nutriscore Rating: 65/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried minced onion
• 1 teaspoon beef bouillon powder
• 0.5 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 0.5 teaspoons salt
• 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
• 0.75 cups water

Directions

Step 1

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the flour, chili powder, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, dried minced onion, beef bouillon powder, granulated sugar, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and set aside.

Step 2

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Break it up with a wooden spoon or spatula and cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess grease, if necessary.

Step 3

Return the skillet to the stove on medium heat and sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the cooked ground beef.

Step 4

Slowly pour in the water while stirring to evenly coat the beef with the seasoning mixture. Continue cooking and stirring for 4-5 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced and the beef is coated in a thick, flavorful sauce.

Step 5

Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Remove from heat.

Step 6

Serve the taco meat immediately in soft or hard taco shells, topped with your favorite garnishes like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, salsa, or sour cream.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(674.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1132.4

Total Fat 81.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 32.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 321.1mg	0%
Sodium 2036.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 26.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 4.5g	0%
Total Sugars 3.2g
Protein 79.8g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 100.8mg	0%
Iron 11.0mg	0%
Potassium 1274.1mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 63.3%

Protein: 27.6%

Carbs: 9.1%