Ingredients
– 2 pounds ground beef (85% lean, 15% fat)
– 2 1/3 cups water or beef broth, divided
– 5 tablespoons taco seasoning (homemade or store-bought), or to taste
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon unsweetened dark cocoa powder for color (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions
1-Combine the ground beef, 1 ⅔ cups water, taco seasoning, cornstarch, and cocoa powder in a mixing bowl. Mix by hand or with a mixer until fully incorporated; the mixture should be sticky and thick like a batter.
2-Grease a large nonstick skillet or Dutch oven with cooking oil. Add the meat mixture, pour in the remaining ⅔ cup water, cover, and cook on medium-high heat for 5 minutes. Break up the meat completely with a spatula.
3-Let the mixture simmer uncovered on low heat until the water evaporates and the meat thickens, about 20-30 minutes. Stir and break apart the meat to achieve a fine texture. Season with salt if needed.
4-Serve the meat in hard or soft taco shells with desired toppings.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
💧 Using water or beef broth helps achieve a soft, cohesive texture.
🌽 Cornstarch is key for a sticky, slightly saucy consistency.
🌱 Optional cocoa powder adds color without changing flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 149
- Sugar: 0.1g
- Sodium: 103mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0.2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg