Copycat Taco Bell Soft Taco Supreme

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• That nostalgic Taco Bell Soft Taco Supreme flavor—made fresher at home.
• Ultra-finely crumbled, saucy seasoned beef that tastes spot-on.
• Simple pantry spices and quick 30-minute total time.
• Customizable heat level and easy weeknight assembly.

Grocery List

• Produce: Iceberg lettuce, ripe tomatoes (Roma or vine), optional lime
• Dairy: Mild cheddar cheese, sour cream
• Pantry: Flour tortillas, ground beef, tomato paste, distilled white vinegar, chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, ground coriander, cayenne, sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, masa harina or cornstarch, hot sauce (optional)

Full Ingredients

For the seasoned beef

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef, 80/20
• 1 tsp neutral oil (only if your pan isn’t nonstick)
• 2/3 cup (160 ml) water or low-sodium beef broth
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp distilled white vinegar (or 1 tsp apple cider vinegar)

Copycat taco seasoning blend

• 1 tbsp chili powder (American-style, mild)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/8 tsp cayenne (omit for very mild)
• 1 tbsp masa harina or cornstarch (for body)
• Optional: 1/4 tsp MSG (Accent) for that fast-food umami

For the toppings and tortillas

• 8 (6-inch) soft flour tortillas
• 2 cups finely shredded iceberg lettuce (about 1/2 small head)
• 1 cup finely shredded mild cheddar (about 4 oz)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes, seeds removed (about 2 medium Romas)
• 1/2 cup sour cream (about 8 tbsp)
• Hot sauce, to taste (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Mix the copycat seasoning blend

In a small bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, coriander, sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, cayenne, masa harina (or cornstarch), and optional MSG. Stir well to evenly distribute the cornstarch/masa for a smooth, lightly thickened sauce later.

Step 2: Brown and finely crumble the beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high. Add 1 tsp oil if needed. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up immediately with a spatula. For that signature fine texture, mash with a potato masher as it cooks or splash in 2–3 tbsp water to help separate the crumbles. Cook 5–6 minutes until no pink remains. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Simmer with seasoning until saucy

Return the skillet to medium heat. Sprinkle the seasoning blend over the beef. Add 2/3 cup water, 1 tbsp tomato paste, and 1 tsp vinegar. Stir to combine. Simmer 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces to a glossy, spoon-coating sauce and the beef is deeply seasoned. Taste and adjust salt to preference. Keep warm on low.

Step 4: Prep the classic Supreme toppings

Finely shred iceberg lettuce (thin, crisp strands), dice tomatoes and pat dry with a paper towel, and finely shred the cheddar. Spoon or pipe sour cream into a small zip-top bag and snip the corner for a clean dollop line—this mimics the iconic “Supreme” look.

Step 5: Warm the tortillas

Microwave method: Stack tortillas, wrap in a damp paper towel, and microwave 30–45 seconds until pliable. Skillet method: Heat a dry skillet over medium and warm each tortilla 15–20 seconds per side. Oven method: Wrap the stack in foil and warm at 300°F (150°C) for 8–10 minutes. Keep covered so they stay soft.

Step 6: Assemble your Soft Taco Supremes

Fill each warm tortilla with 2–3 tbsp (about 1.5 oz) of seasoned beef. Add a small pinch of cheddar, a fluffy handful of shredded lettuce, and diced tomatoes. Finish with a 1 tbsp dollop or thin line of sour cream. Add a dash of hot sauce if desired. Serve immediately while the tortillas are warm and the beef is juicy.

Pro Tips

• Ultra-fine crumbles: Use a potato masher during browning, or stir in a splash of water to help separate the meat.
• Fast-food tang: The tiny bit of vinegar brightens the flavor; do not skip it.
• Signature body: Masa harina (or cornstarch) gives the sauce that lightly thickened, glossy fast-food texture.
• Keep lettuce crisp: Shred finely and pat tomatoes dry so tacos do not get watery.
• Warm tortillas properly: Soft, steamy tortillas make assembly clean and prevent splitting.

Variations

• Turkey or chicken: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken; add 1 tsp oil and simmer gently to keep it juicy.
• Vegetarian: Use 2 cups finely chopped mushrooms plus 1 cup rinsed black beans; cook down moisture, then season and simmer as directed.
• Spicy: Add 1/2–1 tsp chipotle powder or a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the simmering beef.

Storage & Make-Ahead

Refrigerate seasoned beef in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water until saucy. Keep toppings stored separately; shred lettuce and dice tomatoes the day you serve for best texture. Warm tortillas just before serving. The seasoning blend can be mixed ahead and kept in a sealed jar for 6 months.

Nutrition (per serving)

Approximate for 2 tacos: 560 calories; 36 g carbohydrate; 28 g fat; 34 g protein; 3 g fiber; 1,300 mg sodium. Values will vary by tortilla brand and toppings.