There’s something truly comforting about making taco night a tradition in our home. It’s one of those meals that brings everyone together, and I cherish the laughter and stories shared around the dinner table. My kids always get excited when they know we’re having tacos, and honestly, who can blame them? Tacos are fun to eat, and the flavors are just so vibrant!
This Crock-Pot taco meat recipe has become a staple in our household. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, and it cooks while I go about my day. Just a few simple ingredients come together to create a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious. I often double the batch because leftovers are perfect for quick lunches during the week. We love using the taco meat for more than just tacos, too—think taco salads, nachos, or even burrito bowls!
What I love most is how customizable it is. You can add your favorite toppings or adjust the seasoning to suit your family’s tastes. Cooking with my family has always been a way for us to bond, and this recipe is a great way to introduce kids to the kitchen. They can help with stirring and serving, and it’s a wonderful way to teach them about flavors and cooking techniques. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe!
Making Crock-Pot Taco Meat
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Ingredients
- 2 lbs lean ground beef (93/7)
- 1 ½ cups mild fresh salsa
- ¼ cup taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
Directions
Begin by placing the ground beef into your slow cooker, followed by the salsa and taco seasoning. Use a wooden spoon to mix everything, ensuring the beef is broken up and evenly coated.
Next, cover the slow cooker and choose your cooking setting. Cook on LOW for 6 hours or on HIGH for 4 hours, depending on your schedule.
About 30 minutes before the cooking time ends, return to the slow cooker and use your spoon to crumble the meat into smaller pieces for even flavor distribution.
When it’s ready, serve the taco meat in your preferred taco shells, or get creative by adding it to salads or other dishes. Enjoy!
Storing Suggestion
Store any leftover taco meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container; it can be frozen for up to a month.
Cooking Tips
To elevate the flavors, consider adding diced onions or bell peppers to the slow cooker with the meat. You can also try different types of salsa for a unique twist, or mix in some black beans for added texture and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this taco meat with a side of Mexican rice, fresh guacamole, or a crunchy slaw to balance the meal. For drinks, a refreshing iced tea or a zesty margarita complements the flavors beautifully.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken works well in place of beef. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or crumbled tofu seasoned with taco spices for a satisfying meatless dish.
Seasonal Variations
In the summer, consider adding fresh corn or diced tomatoes to the mix for a light and refreshing take. In the fall, a touch of pumpkin puree can add a unique depth of flavor while keeping it cozy.
Allergen Information
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but check your taco seasoning and salsa labels to ensure they don’t contain any gluten or other allergens. For dairy-free options, skip the cheese topping and opt for avocado or cashew cream instead.
FAQ
Can I use frozen ground beef in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen ground beef, but it’s best to thaw it before cooking for even results. If cooking from frozen, increase the cooking time slightly and ensure it reaches the proper temperature.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you prefer a bit of heat, add chopped jalapeños or a spicy salsa to the mix. You can also include extra chili powder or cayenne pepper in the taco seasoning for more kick.
What are some good toppings for taco meat?
Popular toppings include shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, lettuce, sour cream, and avocado. Don’t forget fresh cilantro or lime wedges for an added burst of flavor!
Can I cook this on the stove instead?
Absolutely! Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, then add the salsa and seasoning. Let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes until heated through and flavors meld.
How do I know when the taco meat is done?
The taco meat is ready when it is thoroughly cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. The flavors will also deepen as it simmers for longer.
Can I freeze the taco meat after cooking?
Yes, you can freeze cooked taco meat! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to a month, making it perfect for quick meals later on.
Crock-Pot Taco Meat
Ingredients
- 2 lbs lean ground beef 93/7
- 1.5 cups mild fresh salsa
- 0.25 cup taco seasoning store-bought or homemade
Instructions
- Place the ground beef, salsa, and taco seasoning into your slow cooker.
- Use a wooden spoon to break apart the meat and give it a gentle stir to blend everything together.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before the cooking is done, use the spoon again to crumble the meat into smaller pieces.
- Once ready, serve the taco meat in your favorite taco shells or add it to salads and other dishes.
- Store any leftover meat in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- If freezing, let the meat cool down completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to a month.
