Copycat Taco Bell Ground Beef Recipe
Skip the drive-thru and make Taco Bell’s famous seasoned taco meat at home! This easy copycat recipe creates flavorful, finely textured ground beef that’s perfect for tacos, burritos, nachos, taco salads, and more.
- Prep Time: 5 MINUTES
- Cook Time: 25 MINUTES
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 SERVINGS 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: STOVETOP
- Cuisine: AMERICAN | TEX MEX
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon masa harina
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Add the ground beef to a large skillet over medium heat.
- Use a potato masher or wooden spoon to break the meat into very fine crumbles while it cooks.
- Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink.
- Drain excess grease if necessary.
- Add chili powder, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt, pepper, sugar, oregano, masa harina, and cornstarch.
- Stir until the seasonings evenly coat the meat.
- Pour in the water and stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces and the meat develops a slightly saucy consistency.
- Serve in tacos, burritos, nachos, taco salads, quesadillas, or taco bowls.
Notes
- Masa harina helps create the authentic Taco Bell flavor and texture.
- Use a potato masher while cooking for the signature fine crumble.
- Double the recipe and freeze portions for quick taco nights.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.