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Juicy slow-cooked taco meat being stirred in a crockpot with a wooden spoon

Taco Meat in Slow Cooker

This Slow Cooker Taco Meat is juicy, easy, and packed with flavor, no browning required! Perfect for tacos, nachos, burrito bowls, and more. Just toss in your ingredients, set it, and forget it. Great for meal prep and freezer-friendly!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 5 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican-Inspired
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs Ground beef Use 85/15 or 90/10 for best texture
  • 1 cup Tomato sauce Adds moisture and flavor
  • ½ cup Beef broth Can sub with chicken broth or water
  • 1 Onion Small finely chopped
  • 2 –3 cloves Garlic Minced; or use 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 –3 tbsp Taco seasoning Homemade or store-bought
  • Salt & pepper To taste adjust at the end
  • ½ cup Diced green chilies Optional for extra flavor
  • Salsa optional Can replace tomato sauce or add extra kick

Equipment

  • 1 Slow Cooker 4–6 qt recommended for best result

Method
 

  1. Add raw ground beef to the bottom of your slow cooker.
  2. Sprinkle in chopped onion, garlic, taco seasoning, and salt/pepper.
  3. Pour in tomato sauce and broth (and green chilies or salsa if using).
  4. Stir gently to combine. Don’t worry if it’s not fully mixed yet.
  5. Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 2.5–3 hours.
  6. Once cooked, stir well and break up the beef with a spoon or spatula.
  7. If too liquidy, cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes on HIGH to reduce moisture.
  8. Taste, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve!

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat with a splash of broth or salsa to keep it moist.
  • Serve in tacos, burrito bowls, nachos, taco salads, or lettuce wraps.