Get ready for some tasty Crockpot Taco Meat! It’s super easy to make with just ground beef, taco seasoning, and your favorite toppings. Everything cooks slowly, bringing out delicious flavors.
I love using this meat for tacos, burritos, or even nachos. The slow-cooking makes it juicy and flavorful. Plus, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I prefer 85% lean ground beef for its great balance of flavor and fat. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken. For a plant-based twist, try using lentils or textured vegetable protein!
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness and depth to the dish. If you’re in a rush, feel free to use onion powder instead (about 1 tablespoon). For a milder taste, green onions or shallots work well, too!
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes provide moisture and flavor. If you want a fresher taste, you can use fresh tomatoes—about 2-3 medium-sized, chopped. For extra flavor, fire-roasted canned tomatoes add a nice smoky touch.
Taco Seasoning: I enjoy the ease of a seasoning packet, but you can make your own by mixing chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano. This way, you have control over the spice level and ingredients!
How Do I Brown the Meat Perfectly?
Browning the meat is important for building flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil to prevent sticking.
- Add the ground beef and chopped onion at once. This helps the beef cook evenly.
- Break the beef into small pieces as it cooks. This prevents large clumps and allows for even browning.
- Cook until the beef is brown and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess fat before adding it to the crockpot.
By following these steps, you’ll get that delicious brown crust that enhances the flavor of your taco meat!
Crockpot Taco Meat
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies (optional for mild heat)
- 1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crockpot Taco Meat will take about 15 minutes to prep and 6-8 hours to cook on low (or 3-4 hours on high). Perfect for a busy day when you want a tasty meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Meat:
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add your ground beef and finely chopped onion. Cook until the beef is nicely browned and no longer pink, which takes about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain the excess fat afterward for a leaner meal!
2. Adding to the Crockpot:
After browning, carefully transfer the cooked beef and onion mixture into your crockpot. This is where the magic happens!
3. Mixing in the Goodness:
Next, add the diced tomatoes (with all the delicious juices), green chilies (if using), taco seasoning, water, garlic powder, and cumin to the crockpot. Give everything a good stir to combine. This is where the flavors come together!
4. Slow Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. If you can, stir occasionally to make sure everything is well mixed and flavored. The longer it cooks, the better it tastes!
5. Final Touches:
Before serving, taste your taco meat and adjust for salt and pepper according to your preference. You want it just right!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, it’s time to dig in! Use this flavorful taco meat to fill up tortillas, taco shells, or pile onto nachos. Don’t forget to add your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, lettuce, sour cream, diced tomatoes, and salsa for a delicious meal!
Enjoy your flavorful, tender Crockpot Taco Meat!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for ground beef. Just be aware that it may have a slightly different flavor, so you might want to adjust the seasoning to taste.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Taco Meat?
Yes! Feel free to get creative. You can add bell peppers, corn, or black beans for extra flavor and texture. Just be sure to adjust the liquid if you add more ingredients to prevent it from getting too watery.
How Do I Store Leftover Taco Meat?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
What Toppings Go Well with This Taco Meat?
Classic toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, diced tomatoes, avocado, and fresh cilantro. You can also try jalapeños for some heat or lettuce for a fresh crunch!
