Taco meat

Taco meat

Dinner

Item Rating: 60/100

1 serving (85 grams) contains 150 calories, 12.0 grams of protein, 10.0 grams of fat, and 2.0 grams of carbohydrates.

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416.7
calories
33.3
protein
5.6
carbohydrates
27.8
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (236.1g)
Calories
416.7
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 27.8 g 35%
Saturated Fat 11.1 g 55%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 111.1 mg 37%
Sodium 1111.1 mg 48%
Total Carbohydrates 5.6 g 2%
Dietary Fiber 0 g 0%
Sugars 0 g
protein 33.3 g 66%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
Calcium 55.6 mg 4%
Iron 4.2 mg 23%
Potassium 555.6 mg 11%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🥓 Keto friendly
🍯 Low sugar
🧈 High saturated fat
🥩 High protein
🍞 Low carbs

Source of Calories

5.5%
32.8%
61.7%
Fat: 250 cal (61.7%)
Protein: 133 cal (32.8%)
Carbs: 22 cal (5.5%)

About Taco meat

Taco meat is a flavorful, seasoned ground meat traditionally used as a filling in tacos, a staple of Mexican cuisine that has been adapted around the world. The meat is typically seasoned with a blend of spices such as chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, and garlic powder. Popular meats include ground beef, turkey, or chicken. Nutritionally, taco meat is a rich source of protein with approximately 20-25 grams of protein per 4-ounce serving of ground beef, depending on the fat content. It also contains essential nutrients like iron, vitamin B12, zinc, and varying levels of fat, depending on the meat selection (e.g., lean cuts vs. higher-fat options). When paired with fresh toppings and whole-grain tortillas, taco meat can be part of a nutritious, balanced meal.

Health Benefits

  • High in protein (20-25g per 4-ounce serving) helps with muscle repair and growth.
  • Rich in iron, especially in beef, supports red blood cell production and prevents anemia.
  • Vitamin B12 from beef or poultry promotes brain health and proper nervous system function.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains none inherent to meat, but seasoning blends may contain gluten or soy
Suitable for: Low-carb diets, keto diets, high-protein diets
Not suitable for: Vegetarian diets, vegan diets

Selection and Storage

Store cooked taco meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2-3 months for extended shelf life.

Common Questions About Taco meat Nutrition

Is taco meat high in protein?

Yes, taco meat is typically high in protein. A 3-ounce serving of cooked taco meat (made with 80% lean ground beef) contains about 21 grams of protein, making it a great source of protein for muscle maintenance and repair. However, nutritional values can vary depending on the type of meat and seasoning used.

Can I eat taco meat on a keto diet?

Yes, taco meat can fit into a keto diet if prepared without high-carb fillers. Ground beef or other meats in taco seasoning are generally low in carbs, with seasoned taco meat containing approximately 2-4 grams of net carbs per serving. Be cautious with store-bought seasonings, as some may contain added sugars or starches.

Is taco meat healthy?

Taco meat can be part of a healthy diet when made with lean protein and minimal saturated fat. Beef provides important nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins, but consuming high-fat or heavily processed versions regularly may contribute to high cholesterol or sodium intake. Opting for leaner cuts or mixing with ground turkey can make it a healthier choice.

How much taco meat should I serve per person?

A standard serving size is about 3-4 ounces of cooked taco meat per person, which is roughly 1/3 to 1/2 cup. This amount pairs well with additional toppings and sides without overloading on calories.

Is taco meat better with ground beef or ground turkey?

Ground beef and ground turkey both work well for taco meat, but they differ in flavor and nutrition. Ground beef provides a richer flavor and more fat, with 80% lean ground beef containing about 230 calories and 15 grams of fat per 3-ounce serving. Ground turkey is leaner and lower in calories, with about 170 calories and 8 grams of fat per similar serving when using 93% lean meat. Choose based on your taste preference and dietary needs.

Data Sources & Scientific References

Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.

Additional Authoritative Sources:

Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.