Craving restaurant-quality taco meat without hours of preparation? Get ready to revolutionize your dinner routine with this incredibly easy Instant Pot taco meat recipe that transforms frozen ground beef into a flavor-packed meal in just 25 minutes! Whether you're a busy parent, a meal prep enthusiast, or simply someone who loves delicious Mexican-inspired cuisine, this recipe will become your new go-to solution for quick and tasty dinners that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb frozen ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup diced onions
- 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb of frozen ground beef, 1 packet of taco seasoning, 1/2 cup of water, 1/4 cup of diced onions, and 1/4 cup of diced bell peppers.
- Place the frozen ground beef into the Instant Pot. It is okay if the beef is in a solid block; it will break apart during cooking.
- Add the 1/2 cup of water directly into the pot. This will help create steam and prevent the meat from burning.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the frozen ground beef.
- Next, add the diced onions and diced bell peppers on top of the beef and seasoning. This will infuse the flavors into the meat as it cooks.
- Secure the lid on the Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to the sealing position.
- Set the Instant Pot to 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' mode on high pressure for 20 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for about 5 minutes. After that, carefully switch the valve to the venting position to release any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid once all the pressure has been released. Use a fork or spatula to break apart the ground beef, mixing it with the onions, bell peppers, and taco seasoning.
- Stir the mixture well to ensure that the taco seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the meat and vegetables.
- Your Instant Pot taco meat is now ready! Serve it in taco shells, tortillas, or over rice, and top with your favorite garnishes like cheese, lettuce, salsa, or avocado.
Tips
- Don't Thaw: The beauty of this recipe is that you can use completely frozen ground beef - no defrosting required!
- Seasoning Distribution: For maximum flavor, sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the frozen meat to ensure every bite is perfectly seasoned.
- Liquid is Key: Always add water to prevent burning and create the perfect steaming environment in your Instant Pot.
- Natural Pressure Release: Allow a 5-minute natural pressure release to help tenderize the meat and lock in moisture.
- Break and Mix: Use a fork or spatula to thoroughly break apart and mix the meat with seasonings and vegetables for even flavor distribution.
- Versatility: This taco meat isn't just for tacos! Use it in burritos, nachos, taco salads, or over rice for multiple meal options.
- Storage Tip: This recipe freezes beautifully. Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months for quick future meals.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 75mg
