Imagine walking into your home after a long day, greeted by the savory scent of crockpot taco meat wafting through the air. The aroma wraps around you like a warm hug, instantly making you feel at ease and ready for a delicious meal. delicious chicken tortilla soup This dish is not just food; it’s a fiesta in a bowl, bursting with flavors that dance on your taste buds and textures that satisfy every craving. hearty lasagna soup salsa verde chicken soup.
Crockpot taco meat is the superhero of weeknight dinners, swooping in to save the day when you’re too tired to cook. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s Taco Tuesday or just another regular Wednesday where you need something quick and tasty. Trust me, once you taste this dish, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This simple crockpot taco meat recipe brings flavor with minimal effort, perfect for busy nights
- You can customize it based on what spices or toppings you prefer
- The vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate
- Ideal for tacos, burritos, or even nachos!
I remember the first time I made crockpot taco meat for my family; they couldn’t stop raving about it. My kids declared me “the best chef ever,” which made my heart swell with pride.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for less grease but still plenty of flavor. For more inspiration, check out this hearty ground beef casserole recipe.
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Taco Seasoning: Use your favorite brand or homemade seasoning mix for a personal touch.
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Onions: A medium onion adds sweetness; chop finely for even cooking.
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Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic elevates the dish; don’t skip this step.
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Tomato Sauce: Adds moisture and richness; opt for low-sodium if watching salt intake.
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Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers add crunch and sweetness; any variety works!
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Black Beans (optional): For added fiber and protein—drain and rinse before adding.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare your crockpot: Set your trusty slow cooker on low heat while you gather your ingredients. For more inspiration, check out this sticky honey chicken recipe.
Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Sauté chopped onions until translucent and fragrant. Toss in minced garlic and stir until aromatic.
Brown Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up as you go. Cook until browned all over—no one wants gray meat!
Add Taco Seasoning and Tomato Sauce: Sprinkle in taco seasoning while stirring in tomato sauce. Let the mixture simmer briefly to meld those fantastic flavors together.
Combine Ingredients in Crockpot: Transfer your beef mixture into your preheated crockpot. Add chopped bell peppers and drained black beans for extra fun textures.
Slow Cook Away!: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more flavorful it gets!
Now picture this: When dinner time rolls around, lift that lid off your crockpot to reveal perfectly seasoned taco meat that smells divine. Scoop it onto warm tortillas or serve over rice—your choice! Top with shredded cheese, lettuce, or whatever makes your heart sing.
Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or simply a night when you’re craving comfort food at its finest, this crockpot taco meat will become your new go-to recipe. It’s versatile enough to be used in tacos, burritos, or even as a nacho topping—because who doesn’t love nachos? Enjoy creating memories around the dinner table that will keep everyone coming back for seconds! creamy potato bacon chowder.
You Must Know
- This crockpot taco meat recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights
- The flavors meld beautifully over low heat, creating a tender and tasty filling
- You can easily adapt it based on personal preferences or what you have in your pantry
- Perfect for tacos, burritos, or nachos!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the meat in a skillet first to lock in flavor, then transfer it to the crockpot with seasonings and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or even lentils for a vegetarian option. Add extra spices like smoked paprika or chipotle for more depth.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover taco meat in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure you drain excess fat after browning the meat for a leaner dish
- Always taste before serving; adjust seasoning as needed
- If using frozen meat, allow extra cooking time in the crockpot
Sharing taco night with friends once led to an impromptu salsa dance-off in my kitchen, proving that great food brings out the best fun!
FAQ
How do I make this crockpot taco meat spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to enhance the heat level.
Can I use frozen ground beef in this recipe?
Yes, but increase the cooking time to ensure it’s thoroughly cooked.
What toppings go well with crockpot taco meat?
Try shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, and fresh cilantro for delicious toppings.

Savory Crockpot Taco Meat
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- Author: Hellen
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: About 4 (½ cup each) 1x
Description
Experience the rich and savory taste of homemade crockpot taco meat, a hassle-free dish perfect for busy weeknights. This flavor-packed recipe combines lean ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic spices to create a filling that’s ideal for tacos, burritos, or nachos. Set it and forget it—let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the enticing aroma wafting through your home.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 oz)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce (low-sodium recommended)
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (any color)
- 1 can black beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Your Crockpot: Set your slow cooker on low heat.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Sauté onions until translucent and fragrant. Add minced garlic and stir until aromatic.
- Brown Ground Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up as you go. Cook until browned all over.
- Add Seasoning and Sauce: Stir in taco seasoning and tomato sauce; let simmer briefly.
- Combine in Crockpot: Transfer beef mixture to the crockpot; add bell peppers and black beans if using.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (low) / 3 hours (high)
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup (120g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg