When it comes to flavorful and satisfying meals, few options compare to a delicious taco. But sometimes, you want more than just a plain old taco filled with seasoned ground beef or shredded chicken. You want something that packs an extra punch of flavor and excitement. That’s where these 20 bold and spicy taco meat recipes come in!
From stuffed peppers to pasta bakes, quesadillas to nachos, these creative recipes showcase the versatility and richness of taco meat. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, you’ll find inspiration and ideas to elevate your cooking game and impress your friends and family.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 mouthwatering taco meat recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. So grab your apron, get ready to spice things up, and let’s dive into the world of bold and delicious taco meat!
Spicy Beef Taco Stuffed Peppers
Transform ordinary bell peppers into a flavorful fiesta with this spicy beef taco stuffed pepper recipe. A perfect twist on traditional tacos, these colorful peppers are packed with seasoned ground beef, crunchy taco fixings, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, cilantro, and taco seasoning to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each pepper with cooked ground beef mixture, followed by a tortilla, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and shredded cheese.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Creamy Taco Meat Pasta Bake
A twist on traditional pasta bake, this recipe combines the flavors of tacos with a creamy sauce and al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 lb. ground beef
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Stir in cream cheese, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and stir until well combined with meat sauce.
6. Transfer pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped cilantro (if using).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Taco Meat Quesadillas
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with these mouthwatering quesadillas filled with seasoned taco meat, melted cheese, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the ground beef in the skillet until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and taco seasoning to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
5. Spoon the taco meat mixture onto half of the tortilla.
6. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
9. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
10. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Taco Meat Loaded Nachos
Transform your nacho game with this mouth-watering recipe, packed with taco meat, melted cheese, and crunchy toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 tortilla chips
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
– 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add taco seasoning and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Spoon taco meat mixture evenly over the chips.
6. Top with refried beans, diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Taco Meat Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Elevate your taco game by filling zucchinis with a flavorful taco meat mixture and baking to perfection. This unique twist on traditional tacos is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as a fun appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for a vegetarian option)
– 1/2 cup taco seasoning
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add taco seasoning, onion, and salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the taco meat mixture, topping with shredded cheese.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Taco Meat and Rice Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of tacos with the comfort of a warm, cheesy rice dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend family meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Add cooked rice, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and taco seasoning to the skillet. Stir until combined.
4. In a separate bowl, combine shredded cheese and milk. Mix well.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with vegetable oil. Layer casserole mixture, then top with cheese mixture. Repeat for 2-3 layers.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Taco Meat Breakfast Hash
Start your day with a twist on traditional breakfast hashes by incorporating the flavors of tacos!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for a vegetarian option)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 eggs
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in chili powder and cumin; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
6. Pour egg mixture over cooked beef mixture in the skillet.
7. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until eggs are set.
8. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top; return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until melted.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Taco Meat Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your taco Tuesday game with this unique and flavorful twist on traditional tacos! Sweet potatoes add a delightful sweetness to balance out the savory flavors of seasoned ground beef, cheese, and tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup taco seasoning
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
4. Add taco seasoning, onion, bell pepper, and diced tomatoes; cook until mixture is fully combined.
5. Split cooked sweet potatoes lengthwise; scoop out some of the flesh to make room for filling.
6. Stuff each sweet potato with the ground beef mixture, then top with shredded cheese.
7. Return stuffed sweet potatoes to oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes
Taco Meat and Black Bean Enchiladas
Savor the bold flavors of Mexico with this easy recipe, featuring seasoned taco meat and black beans wrapped in tortillas and smothered in a rich enchilada sauce.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 8-10 corn tortillas
• 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped cilantro, sour cream, or diced tomatoes for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, and taco seasoning; cook until onions are translucent.
4. Stir in black beans and season with salt and pepper.
5. In a separate pan, warm tortillas by wrapping them in damp paper towels and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble enchiladas by spooning meat mixture onto each tortilla, rolling up tightly, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish.
7. Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and top with shredded cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Taco Meat Tater Tot Casserole
A flavorful twist on the classic tater tot casserole, this recipe combines the comfort of ground beef and taco seasoning with crispy tater tots and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1 cup tater tots
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add taco seasoning and diced tomatoes with green chilies to the skillet; stir to combine.
4. In a separate pot, cook tater tots according to package instructions.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, create a layer of meat mixture, followed by a layer of tater tots, and finally a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
6. Repeat layers one more time, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Taco Meat and Cornbread Skillet
A hearty, one-pot meal that combines the flavors of tacos with the warmth of cornbread. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in taco seasoning and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.
5. Top with corn kernels and stir to combine.
6. Prepare cornbread mix according to package instructions. Pour over the skillet contents.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and season with salt and pepper.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Taco Meat Stuffed Avocados
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the creaminess of avocados with the boldness of taco meat. Perfect for a quick bite or as an appetizer for a party.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for a vegetarian option)
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, cilantro, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Sprinkle taco seasoning over the mixture and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit. Fill each avocado with about 1/4 cup of the taco meat mixture.
6. Place the stuffed avocados on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted (if using).
7. Serve warm with your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Taco Meat and Cheese Empanadas
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these savory empanadas filled with seasoned taco meat, melted cheese, and a hint of Mexican flair.
Ingredients:
– 1 package empanada wrappers (about 12-15 wrappers)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and taco seasoning to the skillet. Cook until onion is translucent.
4. Roll out empanada wrappers on a floured surface. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the taco meat mixture onto one half of each wrapper.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the meat. Fold the other half of the wrapper over the filling, pressing edges together to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze. Place empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Taco Meat Loaded Taco Salad
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional taco salad! This recipe combines tender ground beef with crunchy taco shells, fresh greens, and creamy toppings for a deliciously loaded treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 taco shells
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add taco seasoning and cook according to package instructions.
4. In a separate pan, warm taco shells over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until crispy.
5. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cooked ground beef, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Taco Meat and Egg Breakfast Burritos
Start your day with a flavorful twist on traditional breakfast burritos! This recipe combines the savory goodness of taco meat, scrambled eggs, and melted cheese wrapped in a warm flour tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for a vegetarian option)
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 8-10 flour tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, salsa, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and taco seasoning to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent and the meat is fully browned.
3. Scramble 4 eggs in a separate bowl and set aside.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the burritos by spooning the taco meat mixture onto a tortilla, followed by scrambled eggs and shredded cheese.
6. Roll up the burrito tightly and cook in a skillet over medium heat until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy (about 2-3 minutes per side).
7. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Taco Meat Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the bold flavors of taco meat with crunchy bell peppers. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch!
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for a vegetarian option)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add taco seasoning and cook according to package instructions.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the taco meat mixture and top with cooked rice and shredded cheese (if using).
6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Taco Meat and Refried Bean Dip
Add a delicious twist to your taco nights with this easy-to-make dip recipe that combines flavorful taco meat with creamy refried beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and taco seasoning to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the refried beans and shredded cheese until well combined.
4. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the dip is heated through and the flavors have melded together.
5. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and serve with tortilla chips, taco shells, or use as a topping for tacos.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Taco Meat Shepherd’s Pie
Elevate your comfort food game with this creative take on the classic shepherd’s pie, featuring taco meat and all the fixin’s. This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup mashed potatoes
– 1 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brown ground beef with taco seasoning, onion, and garlic. Drain excess fat.
3. Add peas and carrots, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. In a separate bowl, mix mashed potatoes with milk and butter until smooth.
5. Assemble the dish by spreading the meat mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish, followed by the potato topping.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Taco Meat Stuffed Crescent Rolls
A twist on traditional taco fillings, these crescent rolls are stuffed with seasoned ground beef and cheese for a delicious and easy snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of crescent roll dough (8-10 rolls)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the taco seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper to the cooked ground beef and stir to combine.
4. Roll out the crescent dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the seasoned ground beef mixture onto the center of each roll, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the meat filling.
7. Roll up the crescent rolls tightly and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Taco Meat and Potato Skillet
A hearty, one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch. This recipe combines the flavors of taco meat with roasted potatoes and spices for a deliciously comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, corn kernels, and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the potatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with green chilies. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and let cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your taco game with these 20 flavorful recipes that pack bold flavors! From classic tacos and nachos to innovative stuffed peppers and breakfast burritos, there’s something for everyone. Discover mouthwatering combinations like spicy beef stuffed peppers, creamy pasta bake, cheesy quesadillas, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these easy-to-make recipes will inspire your next taco fiesta. So go ahead, get creative, and bring the flavors of Mexico to your table!
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