Introduction
Tacos are a weeknight staple for many, but sometimes, even the thought of chopping vegetables after a long day is enough to order takeout. Enter: taco meal prep! Planning your taco ingredients and assembling components ahead of time can transform taco night from a chore into a fiesta in minutes. This guide provides delicious, make-ahead taco recipes and tips to streamline your taco Tuesday (or any day!) experience.
Main Sections: Your Taco Meal Prep Guide
Ground Beef Taco Filling Prep
Ground beef is a classic choice. Here’s how to prep it effectively:
- Cook in Bulk: Brown a large batch of ground beef (2-3 pounds) with diced onions and your favorite taco seasoning.
- Drain Thoroughly: Remove any excess grease after browning to prevent soggy tacos later.
- Portion and Store: Divide the cooked beef into individual containers (1-2 servings each) for easy grab-and-go meals. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet, microwave, or even in a slow cooker for a hands-off approach.
Chicken Taco Meal Prep: Two Ways
Shredded Chicken in Slow Cooker
A simple and flavorful method for meal prepping chicken tacos.
- Ingredients: Place 2-3 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a slow cooker. Add 1 cup of chicken broth, 1 packet of taco seasoning, and your favorite salsa (optional).
- Cooking Time: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Shredding: Shred the chicken with two forks directly in the slow cooker. Let it simmer in the juices for another 30 minutes to absorb the flavor.
- Storage: Portion the shredded chicken into meal prep containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Grilled or Baked Chicken Strips
For a leaner taco option.
- Marinate: Marinate chicken breasts or thighs in a mixture of lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt.
- Cook: Grill or bake the chicken until cooked through.
- Slice: Slice the chicken into strips or cubes.
- Store: Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Vegetarian Taco Options: Black Bean Fiesta
Delicious and packed with protein and fiber.
- Ingredients: Combine canned black beans (drained and rinsed), diced onions, corn, bell peppers, and your favorite taco seasoning in a large bowl.
- Sauté (Optional): For added flavor, sauté the mixture in a skillet with a little olive oil until heated through.
- Storage: Store in meal prep containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Variations: Add diced sweet potatoes, quinoa, or other vegetables to your black bean mixture.
Make-Ahead Taco Toppings
Prep your toppings for a quick and easy taco assembly.
- Shredded Cheese: Shred cheese in advance and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Lettuce: Wash and chop lettuce, then store it in a container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture.
- Pico de Gallo: Make fresh pico de gallo by dicing tomatoes, onions, cilantro, jalapeños, and lime juice. Store in the refrigerator.
- Guacamole: Guacamole is best made fresh, but you can delay browning by pressing plastic wrap directly onto the surface before refrigerating. Alternatively, buy pre-made guacamole in single-serving containers.
- Salsa: Choose your favorite salsa and store it in its original container.
Choosing the Right Taco Shells
Consider these storage options for your taco shells:
- Hard Shells: Store in their original packaging in a cool, dry place.
- Soft Tortillas: Warm tortillas before serving for improved texture. Store in a sealed bag or container to prevent them from drying out.
- Meal Prep Tip: For ultimate convenience, pre-assemble your tacos with the filling and toppings, then wrap them individually in foil or plastic wrap. These can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days.
Conclusion
Taco meal prep is a game-changer for busy weeknights. By prepping your ingredients in advance, you can enjoy delicious, homemade tacos without the stress. Experiment with different fillings, toppings, and variations to create your perfect taco meal prep routine. So, ditch the takeout menus and embrace the ease and flavor of make-ahead tacos!
