Letting this Crockpot Taco Meat simmer low and slow all day gives it an unbeatable texture—tender, juicy, and packed with rich, savory flavor. It’s the easiest way to make mouthwatering beef tacos that taste like they’ve been cooking for hours (because they have!). With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep, this recipe delivers a super satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, game day, or taco night with friends. Just set it, forget it, and get ready for compliments!
5-Star Review
“I love this recipe! I have made it twice and love the ease of throwing the meat, seasonings, and salsa in and walking away. The meat comes out nice and moist, not dried out as it can be on the stovetop. It’s delicious and I probably won’t make taco meat any other way from now on!” -Jenn
Crockpot Taco Meat Recipe
This Crockpot Beef Taco Meat is loaded with bold, fresh flavor thanks to a simple homemade taco seasoning—and it’s sure to become a family favorite. It makes a big batch, so you’ll have plenty of leftovers for easy meals throughout the week.
Want to lighten it up? Swap in ground turkey or ground chicken for a leaner option that’s just as tasty!
Crockpot Taco Meat for Beef Tacos
Equipment
- Crockpot
Ingredients
- 4 pounds ground chuck
- ¼ cup water
- 16 ounces taco sauce (click for recipe!)
- 6 tablespoons taco seasoning (click for recipe!)
- 1½ teaspoons granulated sugar optional
Instructions
- Place all ingredients in a crockpot set on high heat. Break the ground chuck apart and mix well. Cook on low for 4 hours, covered, stirring occasionally.4 pounds ground chuck, ¼ cup water, 16 ounces taco sauce, 6 tablespoons taco seasoning, 1½ teaspoons granulated sugar
- Spoon the meat from the crockpot, with a slotted spoon, onto a large paper towel-lined bowl. Let the excess fat drain from the beef for 10 minutes.
- Store until ready to use or prepare your favorite taco recipe and enjoy.
Becky’s Tips
- This crockpot taco meat comes out very tender, but can be a touch dry. Stir in a little taco sauce or picante sauce before serving to add moisture. If you want, you can add the beef to a skillet and give it a quick brown.
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Did you make this? Leave a comment!
How to Make Crockpot Taco Meat Step by Step
Cook the meat: Place 4 pounds of ground chuck, ¼ cup water, 16 ounces of taco sauce, 6 tablespoons taco seasoning, and 1½ teaspoons granulated sugar in a crockpot set on high heat. Break the ground chuck apart and mix well. Cook on low for 4 hours, covered, stirring occasionally.
Drain the meat: Spoon the meat from the crockpot, with a slotted spoon, onto a large paper towel-lined bowl. Let the excess fat drain from the beef for 10 minutes then transfer the beef to a covered container and refrigerate until ready to use.
Refrigerate or use: Store until ready to use or prepare your favorite taco recipe and enjoy.
How to Store and Reheat
Store leftover crockpot taco meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave in 30-second increments until warmed through.
You can freeze this crockpot taco meat (make sure to let it cool completely in the fridge first!) in 1-pound portions in Ziplock bags for up to 3 months. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
To make tacos, you’ll need taco shells, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, shredded cheese, diced onion, chopped cilantro, and whatever else you love as taco toppings. We like to top our crockpot beef tacos with creamy guacamole, sour cream, and a nice tart pico de gallo. Set up a taco bar and get creative! Or, use the taco meat in this family-favorite Dorito casserole.
Can I divide by 4 and will it taste good?
It should!
Do you cook on low or high for 4 hours?
Hi Lena, we cooked on low!
If I were to use ground turkey instead of ground chuck how much would I need? Thanks!
Use the same amount — 4 pounds!
Can I cook the meat on stove first and then add everything to slow cooker?
We don’t recommend it, as the meat benefits from cooking slowly over a long period of time to become tender!
So easy and tasty. Where has this recipe been all my life?
So glad you enjoyed it, Teena!
How many people does this recipe feed?
Around 8 full bellies!
Can this be made with diced tomatoes instead of sauce?
You can give it a shot!
Great recipe!
Thanks for sharing, Jessica!
Can I cook this on low for 6 hours and then keep it on warm for a few hours until lunch?
You could definitely give it a shot!
This was delicious. I didn’t think to take a picture, but this was so easy and tasty, I will definitely make it again. I didn’t have taco shells, so I put it over Tostito chips with shredded cheese, sour cream, etc. Yummy!
Sounds amazing!!