Description
A flavorful, saucy, and perfectly seasoned ground beef recipe that recreates the signature taste of Mighty Taco at home. Ideal for tacos, burritos, nachos, or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 pounds lean ground beef (93–95% lean)
- 9 cups water (divided into 8 cups + 1 cup)
- 14.5-ounce can no-salt-added diced tomatoes with juices
- 3 medium-large onions, diced
- 2 medium cloves garlic, minced
- 1 fresh jalapeno pepper, de-seeded and minced (or 1 tablespoon dried diced jalapeno)
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon coarse kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a large pot or skillet, add ground beef and 8 cups of water. Cook over medium-high heat, breaking up the meat until evenly browned and fully cooked.
- Drain excess liquid and return beef to the pot.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, onions, garlic, jalapeno, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, honey, chili powder, salt, oregano, cumin, and black pepper.
- Add the remaining 1 cup of water and mix thoroughly.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and flavors blend.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as desired. Add more salt or chili powder to preference.
- Serve in taco shells, burritos, or over nachos, and top with cheese, lettuce, or salsa.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef for the best texture and less grease.
- Simmer slowly to achieve a rich, saucy consistency.
- Adjust chili powder or jalapeno to control heat level.
- Make extra and freeze for easy weeknight meals.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg