Spicy Beef

Prep: 10 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Mexican

A spicy, flavorful beef or turkey dish topped with cheese and served over crunchy corn chips, perfect for casual gatherings or quick weeknight dinners.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lb. ground beef or turkey
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
  • 1 c. chopped onion
  • 1 Tbsp. chili powder
  • 1 tsp. paprika
  • 1/2 tsp. oregano
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 tsp. pepper
  • 1 can tomato paste
  • 1 can (16 oz.) tomatoes or tomato puree
  • bag Fritos corn chips

Instructions

  1. Cook ground beef or turkey with chopped onion and garlic until browned.
  2. Add chili powder, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, tomato paste, and tomatoes or tomato puree.
  3. Simmer for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  4. Serve over Fritos corn chips topped with shredded cheese, or stir together and serve immediately.

Tips & Substitutions

For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. If you're short on time, pre-chopped onions and garlic can be a great shortcut. Ground turkey is a leaner option, but you can also use ground chicken for a different flavor. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and feel free to experiment with other herbs or spices from your pantry.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the spicy beef mixture over a bed of Fritos corn chips for a delightful crunch. Top with shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, or sliced jalapeños for added flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or guacamole for a well-rounded meal. For more delicious options, browse our collection of Mexican recipes.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Spicy Beef contains roughly 1053 calories, with 50g protein, 185g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (397% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (302% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 818mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).

1053 kcal 53% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 49.9g 100% DV
Total Fat 41.3g 53% DV
Carbs 185.2g 67% DV
Fiber 111g 100% DV
Sugar 25g 50% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 817.6mg 36% DV
Potassium 5000mg 100% DV
Cholesterol 71.2mg 24% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 2714.2mcg 100% DV
Vitamin C 18.9mg 21% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg 1% DV
Calcium 2000mg 100% DV
Iron 40mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option. Each will bring its own unique flavor and texture to the dish.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this spicy beef recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make a large batch and portion it out for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just store in individual containers for convenience, and reheat as needed.

What can I serve with this dish?

This spicy beef can be served with a variety of sides. Consider pairing it with a simple green salad, some Mexican rice like Pop'S Spanish Rice, or even fresh guacamole. These sides complement the flavors and add freshness to the meal.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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