Ingredients:

  • 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10 lean-to-fat ratio)
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp lime juice

Instructions:

  1. Heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it into large chunks, and let it sit undisturbed for 3–4 minutes until a dark, mahogany-colored crust forms.
  2. Reduce the heat to medium. Sprinkle the pre-mixed seasoning blend (chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper) evenly over the beef. Stir for 2 minutes to toast the spices in the beef fat.
  3. Stir in the tomato paste until well combined, then pour in the beef broth. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces by half and creates a glossy sauce.
  4. Stir in the lime juice immediately before removing from heat to brighten the flavors.