How to Cook Ground Beef Safely

Learn how to brown ground beef for tacos or pasta with these simple, step-by-step instructions for young chefs. HowTo: Family Edition: family how-tos that actually help.

1. Get your station ready. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water. Place your skillet on the stove and ask a grown-up to turn the burner to medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef. Carefully place the ground beef into the center of the warm pan. You should hear a gentle sizzling sound.
3. Break it up. Use your spatula to break the meat into small, even-sized crumbles. Keep stirring so the meat cooks evenly and doesn't stick to the bottom.
4. Check for doneness. Keep cooking until the meat is completely brown and there is no pink left. Ask a grown-up to help you use a digital meat thermometer to ensure the center reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. Finish up. Once it is fully cooked, ask a grown-up to help you drain any excess fat into a heat-safe container. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.