BEEF TACO SEASONING
This beef taco seasoning recipe could become a staple in your weekly rotation! It is so easy to make your own seasoning at home, and leave the packets at the store! While taco seasoning packets are convenient, they are often filled with additives, preservatives, fillers, and sometimes MSG. I really encourage building up your own spice cabinet and fully utilizing each spice jar that you purchase. Get comfortable using your spices and putting together easy meals that taste delicious!
You can really save money if you can find a grocery store that offers bulk spices. The spices will come in a plastic/cellophane package instead of a glass jar. If you have old glass jars from previous purchases you can transfer the spices over. Or, simply store in a Ziploc bag. I often find budget-friendly spices in the Hispanic section, Badia is a brand I really like and can find consistently. These typically sell for around $1.25, compared to some of the pricier spices sold in glass jars for $5-$7. It is a great way to build up your pantry!
What I really want to emphasize though, is that food prep is key! Specifically, having lean protein that is already prepared and ready to transform into quick weeknight dinners, or eat directly as-is. This beef taco seasoning recipe will help you do that. Always choose a lean ground beef, such as 90% lean (or leaner) when possible. I love having taco meat on hand because it is so tasty and versatile. Here are just a few ideas you can add it to for a quick meal:
- scrambled eggs
- omelets
- crustless quiches
- fajita bowls
- tostadas
- quinoa salads
- rice bowls
- shepards pie
- sweet potato boats
- whole wheat pasta salads
- whole wheat pita pockets
- and the obvious, tacos…
You can change up the variety by altering your spice mix from time to time. This recipe is my favorite blend that never lets me down. One spice I love is smoked paprika. I will never forget when I first discovered the smoked version. It adds such a nice depth of flavor that you just can’t get from the standard paprika. Try it out!
When you are food prepping, make sure you make a large enough batch to last you all week. For this recipe, I recommend making at least a double batch. If you are sharing with a partner or children, I would even go as far as making a triple or quadruple batch. Call me crazy, but it takes the same amount of time to cook one pound as it does four pounds! Food prep is so important for success. Set yourself up to stay on track!
Beef Taco Seasoning
Ingredients
- 1 pound 93% lean ground beef
- 1 tbl smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp fresh cracked black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp chipotle chili powder
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- ¼ cup of water
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium/high heat. Add the ground beef and break into crumbles while browning. Once browned, add in all of the seasonings and mix well to combine.
- Add in a ¼ cup of water if needed and simmer so the beef absorbs all of the spices. Simmer until water is absorbed.
Video
When you are food prepping grains, how do you reheat. They never seem to taste a good as the freshly made. Like rice clumps or doesn’t get hot through and through without drying out.
Hi Linda! I reheat either in the microwave or on a skillet on the stovetop. Adding a bit of water can help keep it hydrated. Precooked rice works especially well on the skillet in stir frys!