Ground Beef Taco Skillet
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Ground Beef Taco Skillet is a quick, one-pan meal that brings the flavors of your favorite tacos to the table in just a few minutes.
This Ground Beef Taco Skillet is not only delicious but also a fantastic way to enjoy a classic taco flavor without the fuss of individual taco assembly. It's perfect for busy weeknights and can easily be customized to suit your taste!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy one-pan meal for busy weeknights
- Loaded with flavor from spices and fresh toppings
- Customizable with your favorite taco toppings
A Flavorful Weeknight Solution
Busy weeknights can often lead to the same repetitive meals. This Ground Beef Taco Skillet is here to change that. With its vibrant flavors and hearty ingredients, it offers a satisfying dinner option that you can whip up in no time. The combination of seasoned beef, fresh vegetables, and zesty spices evokes the beloved taste of tacos, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
What sets this dish apart is its simplicity. Everything cooks in one pan, which means less time spent on cleanup and more time enjoying your meal with family. The recipe is designed to be straightforward, ensuring that even novice cooks can impress their loved ones with a delicious homemade dinner.
Customizable for Everyone
One of the best features of this Ground Beef Taco Skillet is its versatility. You can easily tailor it to suit your family's preferences. Whether you prefer spicier flavors with jalapeños or a milder version topped with creamy avocado and sour cream, the options are endless. This adaptability makes it a fantastic choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
You can also swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative for a healthier or vegetarian option. The recipe remains just as delicious, allowing everyone at the table to enjoy a personalized meal that satisfies their individual tastes.
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you're looking to streamline your weekly cooking routine, this Ground Beef Taco Skillet is perfect for meal prep. It stores well in the refrigerator, allowing you to prepare it in advance and simply reheat when you're ready to eat. This not only saves time but also helps you maintain a balanced diet throughout the week.
Consider making a double batch and portioning it into containers. You can enjoy it throughout the week, whether for lunch or dinner. The flavors only get better as they sit, making it a delicious option for those busy days when you don’t have time to cook from scratch.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- Sour cream
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños
- Diced avocado
- Chopped green onions
Adjust the toppings as per your preference!
Instructions
Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Add Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Mix in Seasoning and Other Ingredients
Stir in the taco seasoning, black beans, diced tomatoes, and corn. Mix well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Add Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, cover the skillet, and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with your favorite taco toppings.
Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Taco Skillet!
Variations to Try
While this recipe is packed with classic taco flavors, feel free to get creative! Consider adding diced zucchini or mushrooms for extra vegetables. You can also incorporate different beans, such as pinto or kidney beans, to give your skillet a unique twist. Another option is to use different types of cheese—pepper jack cheese can add an extra kick!
For a unique spin, try using taco-flavored tortilla chips as a crunchy topping. Just crush them and sprinkle them over the skillet right before serving. This adds texture and enhances the traditional taco experience right in your skillet.
Storage Tips
To store any leftovers, allow the Ground Beef Taco Skillet to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
If you want to freeze the dish, make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above. This makes it an excellent option for future meals!
Serving Suggestions
This Ground Beef Taco Skillet can be served on its own or accompanied by sides for a more complete meal. Consider serving it alongside warm tortillas or tortilla chips for that authentic taco night feel. A side of Mexican rice or a fresh salad can also complement the dish beautifully.
For an added burst of freshness, serve the skillet with a squeeze of lime or a side of pico de gallo. This enhances the overall flavor and elevates your meal, making it feel even more special for family gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and will work well in this recipe.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and reheat it when you're ready to serve.
→ What toppings do you recommend?
Sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, and sliced jalapeños are all great options!
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free taco seasoning and check your canned ingredients for gluten.
Ground Beef Taco Skillet
This Ground Beef Taco Skillet is a quick, one-pan meal that brings the flavors of your favorite tacos to the table in just a few minutes.
Created by: Megan Scott
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- Sour cream
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños
- Diced avocado
- Chopped green onions
How-To Steps
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the taco seasoning, black beans, diced tomatoes, and corn. Mix well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, cover the skillet, and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted.
Serve hot, garnished with your favorite taco toppings.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 7g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 30g