Beef Taco Skillet

This Beef Taco Skillet is a quick and satisfying one-pan dish that delivers all the bold flavors of a classic taco without the need for assembling individual shells. It’s a perfect option for busy weeknights, offering a hearty meal that the entire family will enjoy. Made with ground beef, vegetables, spices, and a touch of cheese, it’s a savory, customizable dish that comes together in just minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This beef taco skillet is a time-saving solution for taco night, combining all the elements of your favorite taco in a single pan. It’s a great way to feed a crowd with minimal cleanup. The ingredients are pantry staples, and the recipe is easily adaptable based on dietary preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you’re serving it straight from the skillet or scooping it into tortillas, this dish is sure to become a weeknight favorite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef

• Onion

• Bell pepper (any color)

• Garlic

• Taco seasoning

• Canned diced tomatoes

• Corn (frozen or canned)

• Cooked rice

• Shredded cheddar cheese

• Olive oil

• Salt and pepper

• Fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

2. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Stir in the ground beef. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

4. Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and stir to coat the meat evenly.

5. Add canned diced tomatoes (with juice), corn, and cooked rice. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

6. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to heat through.

7. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and allow the cheese to melt, about 2-3 minutes.

8. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Low-carb version: Omit the rice and add more vegetables such as zucchini or cauliflower rice.

• Spicy option: Add jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

• Vegetarian version: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat or black beans.

• Cheese variety: Try using pepper jack or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.

• Taco skillet bowls: Serve the mixture over lettuce or tortilla chips for a taco salad or nacho-style dish.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Allow the skillet to cool completely before transferring leftovers to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes. Add a splash of water or broth if the mixture seems dry.

FAQs

How do I make this taco skillet spicier?

You can increase the heat by adding chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce while cooking.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great lean alternative and works just as well in this recipe.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your taco seasoning is gluten-free and you’re not using any flour-based additions, it can be gluten-free.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. This dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. Reheat just before serving.

What can I serve with this beef taco skillet?

It pairs well with tortilla chips, sour cream, guacamole, or a simple side salad.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, this recipe freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Can I add beans to this recipe?

Certainly. Black beans or pinto beans can be added for extra protein and texture.

What kind of rice works best?

Cooked white rice, brown rice, or even leftover Mexican rice can be used depending on your preference.

How do I prevent the skillet from drying out?

Add a splash of broth or water during reheating or if the mixture seems too thick while cooking.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply use a larger skillet or cook in batches if needed. This is a great recipe for meal prep or serving a crowd.

Conclusion

This Beef Taco Skillet is a fast, flavorful, and versatile meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. It captures all the comfort and bold taste of tacos without the fuss, and it can be easily customized to suit any dietary needs or preferences. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this one-pan wonder is sure to impress

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