Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight meal—the Beef Enchilada Skillet! It’s the epitome of simplicity and flavor, combining all those mouthwatering enchilada tastes in one easy-to-make dish. Seriously, you can whip this up in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy nights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. The best part? You get that rich, savory goodness with minimal cleanup. Trust me, once you try this beef enchilada skillet, it’ll become a go-to recipe in your home, and you’ll be craving those bold flavors again and again!
Ingredients List
Gather these simple ingredients to create your Beef Enchilada Skillet. Each one plays a crucial role in delivering that delicious, comforting flavor!
- 1 lb ground beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option, but feel free to go with regular for extra flavor.
- 1 can black beans, drained: Canned black beans are a time-saver! Just rinse and drain them before adding to the skillet.
- 1 can corn, drained: Sweet corn adds a pop of color and sweetness. Drain and set aside!
- 1 can diced tomatoes: Go for the variety with no added salt if you’re watching your sodium intake. This adds moisture and richness to the dish.
- 1 cup enchilada sauce: Choose your favorite store-bought or homemade enchilada sauce for that authentic kick!
- 1 cup shredded cheese: I recommend a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for that gooey, melty goodness.
- 1 onion, chopped: A medium onion works perfectly, adding sweetness and depth. Sauté it until it’s translucent for the best flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is key! It adds an aromatic punch that complements the beef beautifully.
- 1 tsp cumin: This warm spice elevates the dish, giving it that cozy, Mexican-inspired flavor.
- 1 tsp chili powder: Adjust the amount based on your spice preference. This adds a lovely depth of flavor!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season! A little salt and freshly cracked pepper goes a long way.
How to Prepare Beef Enchilada Skillet
Now, let’s dive into the fun part—making this Beef Enchilada Skillet! It’s super straightforward, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how quickly it all comes together.
- First, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. Once it’s nice and warm, add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s browned all over, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks—about 5-7 minutes.
- Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté everything together until the onion is soft and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Oh, the aroma is heavenly!
- Now, stir in those black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Then pour in the enchilada sauce, and sprinkle in the cumin and chili powder. Give it all a good stir and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This is where all those delicious flavors meld together!
- Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Trust me, this is the moment you’ve been waiting for!
And just like that, you’ve created a scrumptious Beef Enchilada Skillet that’s ready to be devoured!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Beef Enchilada Skillet is truly a game-changer! Here’s why you’ll fall head over heels for it:
- Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have a satisfying meal on the table in no time!
- Delicious Flavors: The combination of spices, beef, and cheesy goodness creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and relax with loved ones.
- Versatile: Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or toppings—there are endless possibilities!
- Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults, making it perfect for any dinner table.
Tips for Success
Want to elevate your Beef Enchilada Skillet to the next level? Here are my top tips for ensuring absolute perfection every time!
- Perfectly Brown the Beef: Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the beef. This helps achieve that beautiful brown color and rich flavor. Don’t rush it—let it sear!
- Don’t Skimp on Cheese: Go heavy on the cheese for that gooey, melty finish. I like to add a bit of cheese during cooking and then more on top for the ultimate cheesiness!
- Simmer with Love: Allow the mixture to simmer long enough for the flavors to blend beautifully. This is where the magic happens, so don’t skip this step!
- Customize Your Spice: Adjust the chili powder to your taste. If you like it spicy, add some jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper!
Variations of Beef Enchilada Skillet
The beauty of this Beef Enchilada Skillet lies in its versatility! You can easily customize it to fit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:
- Swap the Protein: Try using ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled tofu for a vegetarian twist. Each option brings its own unique flavor!
- Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and color. It’s a great way to sneak in more veggies!
- Change Up the Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses, like pepper jack for a spicy kick or queso fresco for a creamy touch.
- Top with Fresh Ingredients: Finish it off with chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for a fresh burst of flavor!
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own! The options are endless!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Storing your Beef Enchilada Skillet is super easy. Just transfer any leftover skillet to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll keep well for up to 3 days—perfect for quick meals later on!
When you’re ready to enjoy those tasty leftovers, simply reheat them on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe dish, covering it loosely to prevent splatters. Just be careful not to overheat, or the cheese may become rubbery. Enjoy the flavors all over again!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. While I’ve provided a general overview of the nutrition for this Beef Enchilada Skillet, precise values aren’t guaranteed. It’s always a good idea to check the labels of your ingredients and adjust accordingly, especially if you’re watching your diet. Enjoy this delicious meal while keeping your nutrition in mind!
FAQ Section
Got questions about the Beef Enchilada Skillet? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries:
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just swap the ground beef for a plant-based protein like lentils, black beans, or crumbled tofu. You can also add more veggies for a hearty meal!
What can I serve with it?
This skillet is fantastic on its own, but you can serve it with warm tortillas, rice, or a crisp salad for a complete meal. Don’t forget a scoop of guacamole or sour cream on the side!
How do I adjust the spice level?
If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili powder and skip any spicy toppings. For more heat, add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix—yum!
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Just let the skillet cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
Print
Beef Enchilada Skillet: 5 Reasons You’ll Love This Dish
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A quick and delicious beef enchilada skillet meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup enchilada sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Stir in black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, enchilada sauce, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 10 minutes to blend flavors.
- Top with shredded cheese and cover until melted.
Notes
- Serve with tortillas or rice.
- Can substitute turkey or chicken for beef.
- Adjust spice level by adding jalapenos.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Beef Enchilada Skillet, enchiladas, beef recipes