Here is an easy, freezer-friendly meal that's packed with bold flavor. These Jalapeño Beef Tacos are the perfect make-ahead dinner for chaotic nights. Tender shredded beef with pickled jalapeño's, onions, and spices create this mouthwatering base for delicious tacos.
If you are looking for a way to spice up your tacos without adding any stress to your evening, then you have come to the right place. These Jalapeño Beef Tacos are your answer! Loaded with bold flavors, slow-cooked to perfection, and also customizable for any heat level. This recipe will have your family asking for seconds. Served in warm tortillas with your favorite taco toppings, you’ve got yourself a taco night win!
Freezer Meal Saving Life Hack
The best part about this recipe is that it is a freezer meal that makes dinnertime effortless and seamless. Prep everything ahead, store in the freezer, and let your slow cooker do the work when you are ready. It is a make-ahead meal that saves time, saves energy, and your sanity on those chaotic nights.
Why You’ll Love Jalapeño Beef Tacos Freezer Meal?
Perfect for Meal Swaps – Make a batch for a friend or swap freezer meals with another busy parent.
Easy to Make in Bulk – Double the recipe, freeze half, and future-you will thank you!
Less Mealtime Stress – Because dinner shouldn’t be another thing on your never-ending to-do list!
Can Be Used in More Than Just Tacos – Turn leftovers into burrito bowls, quesadillas, nachos, or even taco salads.
Saves Money – Cooking at home is way more budget-friendly than ordering takeout every night.
Restaurant-Quality at Home – Enjoy tender, flavorful beef tacos without the takeout price tag.
Equipment Needed To Make Meal Prep Shredded Beef Tacos Recipe?
Gallon Freezer Bag
Slow Cooker
Ingredients For Your Jalapeño Beef Tacos
2-3 lbs beef chuck roast
28 oz can pickled jalapenos
1 large onion, diced
2 tsp garlic powder
2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp oregano
2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
Serve with:
6-8 Tortillas
2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
Your favorite taco toppings (optional)
Jalapeño Beef Tacos Freezer Meal Recipe
Here is an easy, freezer-friendly meal that's packed with bold flavor. These Jalapeño Beef Tacos are the perfect make-ahead dinner for chaotic nights. Tender shredded beef with pickled jalapeño's, onions, and spices create this mouthwatering base for delicious tacos.
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How To Make A Jalapeño Beef Tacos?
Prep Directions:
Step 1: Prepare a gallon freezer bag, labeling according to your preferred method. Link to my favorite freezer bags, click here!
Step 2: Add all ingredients, except serve with ingredients, to the freezer bag.
Step 3: Seal bag, remove as much air as possible, and freeze for up to three months.
Slow Cooker | Cooking Directions:
Step 1: Thaw the freezer bag in the fridge 12-24 hours before cooking.
Step 2: Dump the contents of the freezer bag into the slow cooker.
Step 3: Cook on low for 8-10 hours.
Step 4: Shred/break apart beef and serve in tortillas with cheese.
Optional: Top with your favorite taco toppings.
What to Serve with Your Freezer Beef Tacos?
Sides:
Charro Beans
Black Beans and Salsa
Street Corn Salad
Desserts:
Chocolate Pot de Crèmes
Flourless Chocolate Lava Cakes
Chocolate Avocado Mousse
Mocktails:
Pineapple Jalapeño Lime Mocktail
Spicy Margarita Mocktail
Jalapeño Lemon-Lime
Popular Substitutions & Additions
Substitutions for Jalapeño Beef Tacos (Freezer-Friendly)
Beef Chuck Roast → Boneless Pork Shoulder: Swap beef for pork shoulder for a slightly sweeter, just-as-tender result.
Pickled Jalapeños → Fire-Roasted Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: If you want a milder, slightly smoky flavor, use a can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes with green chilies instead.
Cheddar Cheese → Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack: Monterey Jack melts beautifully for a creamier texture, while Pepper Jack adds a spicy kick that complements the dish’s flavors.
Additions for Jalapeño Beef Tacos (Freezer-Friendly)
1 Cup Frozen Corn Kernels: Adds a little sweetness and texture, balancing out the spice while holding up well in the freezer.
1 Can (15 oz) Black Beans, Drained and Rinsed: Boosts protein and fiber, making the tacos even more filling while staying freezer-friendly.
½ Cup Fresh Cilantro, Chopped (Frozen in Ice Cube Trays with a Bit of Water or Oil): Adds a pop of freshness once thawed and stirred into the shredded beef before serving.
Best Way To Store Freezer Meal Tacos with Jalapeño’s Leftover?
If you happen to have leftovers, it is best to store with the components separated for freshness. Place the cooked beef in an airtight container and refrigerate it. Store tortillas separately in a sealed bag or container to prevent them from becoming soggy. Toppings like cheese, salsa, and avocado should be stored in smaller containers and added fresh when serving again. Keeping the ingredients separated will help maintain the texture and flavor of your dish.
How Long Will Spicy Beef Tacos Last In the Fridge?
When your meal has been properly stored, the cooked beef stays fresh in the fridge for three to five days. Make sure it’s kept in airtight containers to prevent it from drying out or absorbing fridge odors. Tortillas are best eaten fresh but will last 3-5 days if kept sealed. If you are unsure about finishing leftovers on time, freezing can be a great option.
Can I Freeze Best Freezer-Friendly Beef Taco Recipe?
Yes! Freezing leftover Jalapeño Beef Tacos is a great way to extend their shelf life. Store the shredded beef in a freezer-safe airtight container or resealable freezer bag. Try to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It will stay fresh for up to three months. Tortillas can also be frozen, but it is best to separate them with parchment paper before sealing in a bag. When freezing, avoid toppings like sour cream or avocado, as they do not thaw well. Add fresh toppings after reheating for best taste and texture.
How To Reheat Easy Make-Ahead Beef Tacos Recipe?
Reheating Jalapeño Beef Tacos is super simple. For the beef, warm it up in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to keep it juicy. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to heat evenly. If reheating from frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before warming up. Tortillas can be reheated in a dry skillet, or for a slightly crispy texture, over a gas flame. Once warmed, assemble your tacos with fresh toppings.
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Your Questions Answered
Comment below if you have any questions we didn’t answer.
What cut of beef is best for Jalapeño Beef Tacos?
The best cut for These beef tacos is Beef Chuck Roast. It’s tender and marbled, and slow-cooks beautifully. Other great options include beef shoulder and brisket, as they are rich, juicy and pull apart well.
How Spicy are Jalapeño Beef Tacos?
The spice level depends on the pickled Jalapeño used. For milder tacos, remove the seeds from the Jalapeño or substitute with mild green chilies. Make sure to increase heat with extra Jalapeño’s or cayenne.
Can I make Jalapeño Beef Tacos in the slow cooker or Instant pot?
Yes! Slow cooking is a great way to make this recipe. If you need a slow cooker, here are some great options! Cook on low for 8 hours or in the Instant pot for 60 minutes for tender, flavorful beef. Both methods work well for busy weeknight meals that avoid chaos.
How do I store and reheat Jalapeño Beef Tacos?
Make sure that you store shredded beef in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days in the fridge, or for longer storage, freeze for up to three months. When you go to reheat in a skillet, use a splash of broth or microwave in short spurts with a damp paper towel over the beef.
Can I freeze Jalapeño Beef Tacos as a make-ahead freezer meal?
Yes! Combine the beef, Jalapeño’s, onions, and spices in a freezer friendly bag. Freeze raw, then thaw overnight before slow cooking. This helps create a fresh homemade meal!
Can I freeze Cooked Jalapeño Beef Tacos?
Absolutely Yes! Freeze the shredded beef in a freezer-safe container. Then, freeze the tortillas separately. Thaw overnight, reheat, and serve with fresh chopped toppings.
What toppings go well with Jalapeño Beef Tacos?
Classic toppings for any beef taco includes cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, cilantro, and lime juice.
What’s the best way to serve Jalapeño beef tacos?
The best way to serve tacos is with a warm tortilla. Use fresh toppings such as cheddar cheese, tomatoes, onions, green onions, and cilantro. Pair your tacos with side dishes like Mexican rice, Black beans, or salsa. Pair with a spicy margarita mocktail for a full delicious experience meal.
How do I make Jalapeño beef tacos kid-friendly?
You can make these Jalapeño tacos kid-friendly by removing the seeds from the Jalapeño. Or, you could use mild green chilies instead of the jalapeños. Serve toppings separately so the kids can customize their own tacos, and always add cheese for extra flavor.
If you like this recipe here are some other taco recipes you’re sure to love:
As a full time working mom of four, I know how hard it is to find time (or energy) to cook. That’s why I’ve spent over a decade perfecting freezer meal recipes to make sure they’re not only quick to prepare but packed with flavors the whole family will love!
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