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Air Fryer Taco Meat: Ground Beef in Air Fryer Recipe

Taco night is a beloved tradition in many households, offering a fun and interactive dining experience. However, the traditional methods of cooking ground beef can be time-consuming and often require multiple steps. Enter the air fryer — a game-changer in the kitchen that not only accelerates the cooking process but also infuses your food with incredible flavour. This article will guide you through the effortless preparation of delicious air fryer taco meat using ground beef.

Why Choose the Air Fryer?

Air fryers have taken home cooking by storm due to their ability to produce crispy results with minimal oil. This appliance circulates hot air around the food, ensuring even cooking and browning without the need for deep frying. Not only does this make for a healthier meal, but it also means less mess in the kitchen.

Ingredients

To make your air fryer taco meat, you will need the following ingredients:

• 500g ground beef (preferably lean for a healthier option)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavour)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortillas (for serving)
• Toppings (such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, and avocado)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Before you begin cooking, preheat your air fryer to 200°C (about 400°F). This ensures that the meat cooks evenly and gains that lovely golden-brown colour that we all desire.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat

In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with olive oil, taco seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a fork to mix the ingredients well until everything is evenly distributed. The olive oil will help the seasoning adhere to the meat and keep it moist during cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Meat

Once your air fryer is preheated, transfer the seasoned ground beef into the air fryer basket. Spread the meat out evenly to allow for proper air circulation. Cook the beef for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure it cooks evenly.

Step 4: Break Up the Meat

After the initial cooking time, take a look at the meat. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to break it apart. If you prefer a finer texture, you can cook it for an additional 2-3 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 71°C (160°F) to ensure the beef is fully cooked.

Step 5: Serve

Once your air fryer taco meat is cooked to perfection, remove it from the air fryer and serve it warm with your choice of tortillas and toppings. Whether you prefer classic beef tacos or want to mix things up with taco bowls, this seasoned ground beef works beautifully in any taco creation.

Customisation Options

One of the best aspects of taco meat is its versatility. Feel free to customise the seasoning to suit your taste. You can add cumin for an earthier flavour, chilli powder for heat, or even fresh herbs to brighten up the dish. Additionally, you might consider mixing in beans, corn, or peppers to create a heartier filling.

Conclusion

Preparing taco meat in an air fryer is a quick, easy, and delicious way to bring taco night to your table. With minimal effort and maximum flavour, you can enjoy a fantastic meal that the whole family will love. So, dust off your air fryer, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savour the delightful flavours of homemade tacos with this simple yet satisfying recipe. Happy cooking!