Instant Pot Taco Meat
Tacos are a beloved meal in many households, and for good reason! They are versatile, easily customizable, and packed with flavor. This Instant Pot Taco Meat recipe takes the humble taco filling to a whole new level of convenience and taste. With just a few simple ingredients and the magic of the Instant Pot, you can whip up a batch of delicious taco meat that will satisfy your cravings and have everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into how to make this quick and easy meal!
What Sets This Recipe Apart
What makes this Instant Pot Taco Meat a standout is its incredible flavor profile and the speed at which it can be prepared. The use of Cholula Hot Sauce adds a unique kick, while the combination of spices ensures that every bite is bursting with taste. Plus, cooking in the Instant Pot means you can achieve tender, juicy meat in a fraction of the time it would take on the stovetop. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe will not disappoint.
Ingredients at a Glance
- 2 lbs. lean ground beef
- 2 T olive oil
- 6 T Cholula Hot Sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 1/4 T ground cumin
- 1 1/4 T garlic powder
- 1 1/4 T onion powder
- 2/3 tsp. fine grind black pepper (more or less to taste)
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 cup water
Prep & Cook Tools
- Instant Pot: The star of this recipe, allowing for quick cooking and easy cleanup.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Perfect for breaking up the ground beef as it cooks.
- Measuring Spoons: Essential for accurately measuring out your spices and sauces.
- Cutting Board and Knife: For any additional toppings you might want to prepare.
Instant Pot Taco Meat Cooking Guide
Step 1: Sauté the Beef
Start by turning your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Once it’s hot, add the olive oil. Then, add the lean ground beef, breaking it apart with your wooden spoon. Sauté until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Season the Meat
Once the beef is thoroughly cooked, add the Cholula Hot Sauce, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine all the flavors together.
Step 3: Add Water
Pour in the 1/2 cup of water. This will help create steam and ensure that the meat stays moist during cooking.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to high pressure for 10 minutes. Make sure the valve is set to the sealing position. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for about 5 minutes before switching to a quick release to let out any remaining steam.
Step 5: Shred and Serve
After releasing the pressure, carefully open the lid. Use a fork to fluff the taco meat and combine it with the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Your Instant Pot Taco Meat is now ready to be served!
Substitutions by Category
- Meat: Ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be used instead of beef.
- Hot Sauce: Any other hot sauce you prefer can replace Cholula for a different flavor profile.
- Spices: Fresh garlic and onion can be used instead of powders—just sauté them first before adding the meat.
- Water: Beef broth can be used for richer flavor instead of water.
What I Learned Testing
- Cooking the meat in the Instant Pot not only saves time but also locks in the flavors beautifully.
- The key to great taco meat is balancing the spice levels; feel free to adjust the hot sauce according to your heat preference.
- Letting the meat sit for a few minutes after cooking allows the flavors to meld even more.
- This recipe is extremely forgiving—don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite spices!
Storage Pro Tips
Instant Pot Taco Meat can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked meat in individual portions. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove or in the microwave. This makes for an easy and convenient meal option any day of the week!
Troubleshooting Q&A
What if my taco meat turned out too watery?
If you find your taco meat has too much liquid, you can sauté it for a few additional minutes with the lid off to help reduce the liquid. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients, but keep in mind that you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. It’s best to consult your Instant Pot manual for guidance on maximum capacity and cooking times.
How can I spice it up more?
If you want your taco meat to have more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños during the sautéing step or increasing the amount of Cholula Hot Sauce.
What toppings do you recommend for tacos?
Some great toppings include shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro. Choose your favorites to create a taco bar that everyone will love!
Desserts to Finish
Serve & Enjoy
Now that you’ve mastered Instant Pot Taco Meat, it’s time to serve and enjoy! Prepare your favorite taco shells or tortillas, set up a toppings bar, and let everyone build their own perfect taco. This recipe not only makes for a delicious meal but also a fun dining experience. So gather your friends and family, and dig into a plate of tacos that are bursting with flavor and made in a fraction of the time. Happy cooking!
Instant Pot Taco Meat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by turning your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Once it’s hot, add the olive oil. Then, add the lean ground beef, breaking it apart with your wooden spoon. Sauté until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the beef is thoroughly cooked, add the Cholula Hot Sauce, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine all the flavors together.
- Pour in the 1/2 cup of water. This will help create steam and ensure that the meat stays moist during cooking.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to high pressure for 10 minutes. Make sure the valve is set to the sealing position. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for about 5 minutes before switching to a quick release to let out any remaining steam.
- After releasing the pressure, carefully open the lid. Use a fork to fluff the taco meat and combine it with the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Your Instant Pot Taco Meat is now ready to be served!
Notes
- Store leftover taco meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze cooked meat in portions for easy meals throughout the week.
- Feel free to adjust the spice levels by modifying the hot sauce to your taste preference.
