How to Batch Prep Taco Meat

Make things easier on yourself and keep stomachs full

“To be prepared is half the victory”

…Of your party, that is. Sure you’ve gotten through plenty of parties with food on the stove amidst guests arriving, but preparing in advance could mean an even greater event win. Read on to learn how to make Taco Tuesday more efficient by batch prepping your taco meat (and maybe even give yourself time to enjoy an extra margarita).

What you need:‍

Serves 24 tacos

• 1/2 cup chili powder
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp onion powder
• 2 tsp crushed red pepper
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 Tbsp paprika
• 1 Tbsp cumin
• 1 Tbsp kosher salt
• 1 Tbsp black pepper
• 3 lbs taco meat

• 1 lb ground meat = 8 tacos
• Calculate based on your guests' taco experience. Plus, you can always freeze the rest.

How to do it:

• Combine the spices to make a clean, homemade taco seasoning.
• Cook a large batch of taco meat: 3 lbs to freeze for the party (or more if you know your guests eat a lot).
• Add taco seasoning to the cooked batch (1-2 tablespoons per pound).
• Lay the meat flat in a freezer bag and remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Save until ready to serve your taco meat in a salad, buffet with all the fixings, or premade tacos and you’re ready to enjoy the party!

The best part about this taco meat is it doesn’t only have to be used for tacos. Taco salads, a meaty quesadilla, taco stuffed sweet potatoes…taco meat makes an endless number of meals. Better yet? No last minute runs to the grocery store on Tuesday, the day of tacos. Now with all this extra time on your hands for party prep…check out how to DIY paper flowers.

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