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Easy Madisons Favorite Beef Tacos (Slow Cooker or Instant Pot) photo

Madisons Favorite Beef Tacos (Slow Cooker or Instant Pot)

Madison's Favorite Beef Tacos are a flavorful delight! Perfectly seasoned beef stuffed in crispy taco shells brings the fiesta to your dinner table.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Beef Filling:
  • 2 pounds 93% lean ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 small onion, minced
  • 2 cloves crushed garlic
  • 1/4 cup minced red bell pepper
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 16 pieces corn taco shells
  • 2 cups shredded romaine lettuce
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar
  • 2 plum tomatoes, diced

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Instant Pot
  • Cutting board
  • Chef's knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Cooking Instructions:
  1. Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture - In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Step 2: Add Spices and Vegetables - Once the beef is browned, stir in the cumin, kosher salt, chili powder, paprika, dried oregano, minced onion, crushed garlic, and minced red bell pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onions are softened and fragrant.
  3. Step 3: Slow Cooker Method - Transfer the beef mixture to a slow cooker. Add the water, tomato sauce, and bay leaf. Stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
  4. Step 4: Instant Pot Method - If using the Instant Pot, add the beef mixture to the pot along with the water, tomato sauce, and bay leaf. Close the lid, ensure the vent is sealed, and set to cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Once the timer goes off, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
  5. Step 5: Assemble the Tacos - Once cooking is complete, remove the bay leaf. Spoon the beef mixture into corn taco shells and top with shredded romaine lettuce, shredded cheddar, and diced plum tomatoes.
  6. Step 6: Serve and Enjoy - Serve immediately with your favorite taco toppings, or set up a taco bar for a fun, interactive meal!

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes in the slow cooker.
  • This recipe is versatile; feel free to double the ingredients for meal prep or to serve a larger crowd.