Ground Beef Taco Skillet
Highlighted under: No-Fuss Collection
I love whipping up this Ground Beef Taco Skillet when I need a quick yet satisfying meal. It's a one-pan wonder that takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of seasoned ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and zesty tomatoes creates a delicious and hearty dish that everyone at the table enjoys. It’s both easy to prepare and a crowd-pleaser, ensuring that I can spend more time with my family and less time in the kitchen.
When I first created this Ground Beef Taco Skillet, I was looking for a way to combine all my favorite taco flavors in a single dish. The best part is that it's adaptable; I can easily swap out vegetables or adjust the spices based on what I have at home. It's a great recipe to clear out the fridge!
During my testing, I discovered that browning the beef properly before adding the spices really enhances the overall flavor. Don’t rush this step! Allow the beef to sear until nicely caramelized for that authentic taco taste that has made this skillet a regular in my household.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich flavors of taco spices bursting in every bite
- Quick and convenient one-pan meal for easy cleanup
- Versatile - customize it with your favorite toppings
Ingredient Insights
Using quality ground beef is crucial for the flavor and texture of this dish. Opt for 80/20 beef for its ideal fat content, which adds richness without making the dish overly greasy. Leaner beef might dry out, while fattier cuts can produce excess grease - a balance is key for that perfect taco flavor.
Fresh vegetables add a vibrant crunch that elevates the skillet's taste. Bell peppers not only contribute sweetness but also nutritional value, providing vitamins A and C. If you're in a pinch, using frozen diced bell peppers can save time without sacrificing flavor—just toss them in directly from the bag.
Cooking Techniques
Sautéing onions and garlic before adding other ingredients builds a flavorful base for your skillet. Cook them until they become translucent and aromatic, which typically takes about 3-4 minutes. This process enhances the overall taste by releasing their natural sugars, ensuring every bite is packed with savory goodness.
When adding the canned tomatoes and taco seasoning, consider adjusting the seasoning based on your preferred spice level. If you enjoy a bit of heat, adding diced jalapeños or chili powder can take it up a notch. Always taste the mixture before adding salt; the seasoning mix may already contain a good amount.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Ground Beef Taco Skillet Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, heat a medium flame. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until it's browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add Vegetables
Stir in the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
Season the Mixture
Add the canned tomatoes, corn, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and let simmer for about 8 minutes until heated through.
Add Cheese and Serve
Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the skillet, cover, and let it melt for a few minutes. Garnish with cilantro and serve warm.
Pro Tips
- For an extra kick, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the skillet. You can also serve this over rice for a heartier meal.
Make-Ahead and Storage
This Ground Beef Taco Skillet can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Once cooked, allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. To reheat, just warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
For even longer storage, consider freezing portions. Place the cooled skillet dish in freezer-safe bags or containers, and it can last for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, making it a great meal prep option for busy weeks ahead.
Serving Suggestions
For a fun and interactive meal, serve the Ground Beef Taco Skillet with a variety of toppings like sour cream, avocado slices, or guacamole. A squeeze of fresh lime juice can also brighten the flavors. Providing taco shells or tortilla chips as a side allows everyone to customize their dishes further.
To transform this skillet into a burrito or taco night, simply scoop the mixture into flour or corn tortillas, adding fresh toppings like diced tomatoes or shredded lettuce. This customization keeps meals lively and encourages creativity in serving, making it a hit with both kids and adults.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works well with this recipe.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free taco seasoning, this dish can easily fit a gluten-free diet.
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this taco skillet can be prepared and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat before serving.
→ What toppings can I add?
You can personalize it with sour cream, avocado, salsa, or fresh lime juice for added flavor.
Ground Beef Taco Skillet
I love whipping up this Ground Beef Taco Skillet when I need a quick yet satisfying meal. It's a one-pan wonder that takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of seasoned ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and zesty tomatoes creates a delicious and hearty dish that everyone at the table enjoys. It’s both easy to prepare and a crowd-pleaser, ensuring that I can spend more time with my family and less time in the kitchen.
Created by: Briony Ashcroft
Recipe Type: No-Fuss Collection
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ground Beef Taco Skillet Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat a medium flame. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until it's browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Stir in the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
Add the canned tomatoes, corn, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and let simmer for about 8 minutes until heated through.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the skillet, cover, and let it melt for a few minutes. Garnish with cilantro and serve warm.
Extra Tips
- For an extra kick, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the skillet. You can also serve this over rice for a heartier meal.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 670mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 26g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 30g