Let me tell you, the *Ground Beef Taco Skillet* is one of my absolute go-to meals when I need something quick yet packed with flavor. I love how everything cooks in just one pan—no fuss, no mess! Plus, it’s got all the delicious taco vibes we crave, but in a fraction of the time. I often whip this up on busy weeknights when I want to get dinner on the table without sacrificing taste. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds!). It’s simple, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious!

Ingredients List

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet taco seasoning
1 cup corn, drained
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 cup shredded cheese
2 cups cooked rice
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Prepare Ground Beef Taco Skillet

Now, let’s dive into making this delicious Ground Beef Taco Skillet! It’s super simple, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together. Follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a hearty meal in no time!

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

First things first, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s warm, toss in the pound of ground beef. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. You want to brown it evenly and ensure it’s fully cooked—about 5 to 7 minutes should do the trick. Remember, no pink should linger! Drain any excess fat, and you’re ready for the next step.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Next, add in your chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir it all together and let it cook for about 3 to 5 minutes until the veggies are soft and fragrant. The smell is just heavenly! This step adds that extra layer of flavor you won’t want to miss.

Step 3: Stir in the Taco Seasoning

Now, it’s time to bring in the fiesta! Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and mix it well with the beef and veggies. Then, add in the drained corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This allows all those fantastic flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Combine with Rice and Cheese

Finally, add the cooked rice into the skillet and mix until everything is well combined. Top it off with the shredded cheese, cover the skillet, and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese melts into gooey perfection. Once that cheese is all melty and inviting, it’s time to serve hot and enjoy every bite of this satisfying meal!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Before we dig in, I just want to mention that the nutritional values for this Ground Beef Taco Skillet can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. While I’ve provided an overview of potential values—like approximately 450 calories, 20 grams of fat, and 30 grams of protein per serving—this is just a guideline. It’s always a good idea to check the labels of your ingredients for the most accurate information. So, enjoy this delicious meal without worry, but keep in mind that your results might differ a bit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for those busy weeknights!
One-pan cleanup means less time scrubbing dishes and more time enjoying your meal!
Flavorful and satisfying, it brings all the taco goodness you crave in one delicious dish.
Customizable with toppings like sour cream, avocado, or fresh cilantro to make it your own.

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your Ground Beef Taco Skillet turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my best tips to help you nail it every time:

Use lean ground beef: Opt for 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and fat. If you want to lighten it up, ground turkey or chicken works beautifully too!
Fresh veggies are key: Don’t skimp on the freshness of your vegetables. Using a crunchy bell pepper and a sweet onion can elevate the overall taste of your dish.
Adjust the seasoning: If you like it spicy, feel free to add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when you stir in the taco seasoning.
Cook the rice ahead: To save time, prep your rice beforehand or even use leftover rice from a previous meal. It makes this whole process even quicker!
Experiment with toppings: Get creative with toppings! Try adding diced avocado, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice just before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
Don’t rush the simmer: Allowing the mixture to simmer for the full 5 minutes really helps meld the flavors together, making each bite taste even more delicious.
Leftover magic: If you have leftovers, don’t hesitate to turn them into a taco salad the next day! Just toss the mixture over some greens, and you’ve got a whole new meal!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be sure to impress yourself (and anyone lucky enough to share this meal with you!). Happy cooking!

Variations of Ground Beef Taco Skillet

One of the best things about this Ground Beef Taco Skillet is how versatile it is! You can easily switch things up and make it your own. Here are some fun variations to try:

Different Proteins: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian option. Each protein brings its own unique flavor and texture!
Veggie Power: Add more veggies for extra nutrition! Throw in some zucchini, spinach, or diced carrots. Just make sure to sauté them along with the onions and peppers to keep everything tender and tasty.
Spice It Up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a dash of chipotle powder or smoked paprika for a smoky kick. You can also toss in some diced jalapeños for heat!
Beans Galore: Mix in different types of beans like pinto beans or kidney beans for variety. You can even leave out the beans altogether if you prefer a meatier dish.
Cheesy Goodness: Get creative with your cheese! Try using pepper jack for a spicy twist, or even crumbled queso fresco for a more authentic vibe.
Rice Alternatives: Instead of traditional rice, you can use quinoa or cauliflower rice if you’re looking for a lower-carb option. They both work beautifully and add a different texture!
Taco-Style Wrap: Want to change it up for serving? Serve the mixture in taco shells or burrito wraps for a fun twist! Let everyone build their own with toppings on the side.

With all these variations, you’ll never get bored of this dish! Feel free to mix and match until you find your favorite combo. Happy experimenting!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Alright, so you’ve got some delicious leftovers from your Ground Beef Taco Skillet—how do you store them? First off, let the skillet cool down a bit before you store it. Once it’s at room temperature, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and prevents any funky fridge odors from sneaking in. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days, which is perfect for those busy weeknights when you don’t feel like cooking!

Now, when it comes to reheating, I’ve got a couple of options for you. The best way to maintain flavor and texture is to reheat it on the stovetop. Just pop the skillet back on medium heat, add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out, and stir occasionally until it’s warmed through—this usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. The flavors will blend back together beautifully!

If you’re in a hurry, you can certainly use the microwave. Just place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely (to avoid splatters!), and heat in 30-second increments, stirring in between until it’s nice and hot. Easy peasy!

And there you have it—delicious taco goodness ready to enjoy again! Just remember, the quicker you eat those leftovers, the tastier they’ll be, so dig in!

What to Serve with Ground Beef Taco Skillet

Alright, let’s talk sides! The *Ground Beef Taco Skillet* is a standout dish on its own, but pairing it with some delicious accompaniments can really elevate your meal. Here are a few of my favorite side dishes that go perfectly with this flavorful skillet!

Fresh Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad is always a great match. I love a simple mixed green salad topped with tomatoes, avocado, and a zesty lime vinaigrette. It adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the skillet!
Spanish Rice: If you want to stick with the taco theme, serve it alongside some seasoned Spanish rice. The flavors meld beautifully, and it’s so satisfying!
Guacamole and Chips: Who can resist creamy guacamole with crunchy tortilla chips? It’s a fun, interactive side that everyone will love digging into while enjoying the main dish.
Mexican Street Corn: This sweet and savory corn on the cob, slathered with mayo, cheese, and chili powder, is a crowd-pleaser that complements the spice of the skillet nicely.
Refried Beans: A scoop of refried beans on the side adds creaminess and heartiness to your meal. You can even mix them right into the skillet for added flavor!
Sour Cream and Salsa: Don’t forget to have some sour cream and salsa on hand for topping! They add a cool, tangy contrast that brightens every bite.
Fruit Salad: For a sweeter touch, consider a fruit salad with fresh watermelon, mango, and lime juice. It’s a refreshing way to finish off the meal and cleanse your palate!

With these side dishes, you’ll create a fun and vibrant taco night that everyone will enjoy. Mix and match as you like, and don’t be afraid to get creative! Happy serving!

Ground Beef Taco Skillet: 5 Simple Steps to Deliciousness

Author: CakesLouna
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: Mexican
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

This Ground Beef Taco Skillet is a quick and easy one-pan meal that combines all the flavors of tacos in a simple dish.

Instructions

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until vegetables are soft.
Stir in taco seasoning, corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes.
Simmer for 5 minutes until heated through.
Add cooked rice and mix well.
Top with shredded cheese and cover until cheese melts.
Serve hot and enjoy.

Notes

Customize with your favorite toppings like sour cream or avocado.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Suitable for meal prep.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 450
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 8g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Ground Beef Taco Skillet, Easy Taco Recipe, One Pan Meal

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