easy taco skillet recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best easy taco skillet recipe

I’ve been making this easy taco skillet recipe for years, and it’s a staple in our household. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. I love how it brings everyone together, and my kids adore helping me prepare the ingredients.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients and some quick cooking skills. I remember first trying this recipe at a family gathering, and it was love at first bite – the combination of tender beef, crunchy vegetables, and gooey cheese was absolute magic.

Since then, I’ve tweaked the recipe to suit our tastes and dietary needs, but the essence remains the same. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a memory-maker. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just need something quick and satisfying, this taco skillet is sure to become a favorite in your household too.

Over time, I’ve also discovered that this recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients – the beef provides protein, while the veggies add fiber and vitamins. With its versatility and ease of preparation, this taco skillet has become an essential part of our meal planning routine. We enjoy it as a main course or even as leftovers for days after.

This recipe has never failed to impress our guests or satisfy our family’s cravings.

Easy Taco Skillet

4.6 from 883 votes

This one-pan taco skillet is a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner. Ground beef, beans, and corn are simmered in a zesty tomato sauce and topped with melted cheese.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Skillet

1 lb ground beef
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup frozen corn
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
1/2 cup water
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Optional Toppings

Sour cream
Sliced avocado
Chopped cilantro
Crushed tortilla chips

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes.
3Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet.
4Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent.
5Stir in the black beans, frozen corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, taco seasoning, and water.
6Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes, until the flavors meld and the liquid thickens slightly.
7Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the skillet mixture.
8Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
9Remove the skillet from the heat.
10Serve the taco skillet immediately with optional toppings such as sour cream, sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, or crushed tortilla chips.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Cheese grater

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 24g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 980mg🌾Total Carbs: 32g🥦Dietary Fiber: 8g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also add a diced bell pepper along with the onion for extra vegetables.

Watch Video Of How Easy Taco Skillet Works

This easy taco skillet recipe has become an indispensable part of our meal planning routine – it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike!

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity: using store-bought taco seasoning can save time and effort while still yielding an incredible flavor experience.

For storage purposes, simply let the skillet cool completely before refrigerating or freezing individual portions for later use.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Taco Skillet

Q1: What kind of meat should I use in this recipe?

The beauty of this taco skillet lies in its adaptability – you can use ground beef, shredded chicken, or even diced pork if you prefer. Feel free to experiment with different meats to suit your taste preferences!

Q2: Can I make this recipe without tortillas?

While tortillas are traditional in many Mexican dishes, you can easily omit them or substitute with other low-carb options like lettuce leaves or portobello mushroom caps.

Q3: How do I prevent the taco skillet from becoming too soggy?

Avoid overcooking the vegetables by adding them towards the end of the cooking process. Also, be sure to cook the skillet over medium-high heat to achieve a nice sear on the meat and prevent excess moisture.

Q4: Can I serve this taco skillet at room temperature?

Sure! This dish actually benefits from being served at room temperature – it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Q5: What if I don’t have all these spices? Can I still make this recipe?

While cumin and chili powder are key components of this taco skillet flavor profile, you can omit them if you don’t have them on hand or prefer not to use them. Simply substitute with other spices like smoked paprika or oregano for added depth.

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