Ground Beef Taco Skillet

Name: Ground Beef Taco Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz), undrained; 1 cup corn, frozen or canned; 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped fresh cilantro; Sour cream; Sliced jalapeños; Sliced avocado; Chopped lettuce; Diced tomatoes

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Ground Beef Taco Skillet is a quick and easy meal packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-25T18:55:06.912Z

This Ground Beef Taco Skillet brings together all the classic taco flavors in a one-pan dish that is both satisfying and simple to make. Serve it with your favorite toppings for a fun family dinner!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights
One-pan meal means less cleanup
Customizable toppings for everyone’s taste

      

A Flavorful One-Pan Wonder

This Ground Beef Taco Skillet is a delightful combination of textures and flavors, all cooked in a single pan. The savory ground beef pairs perfectly with the sweetness of corn and the heartiness of black beans. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that’s not only satisfying but also incredibly delicious. The added spices from the taco seasoning infuse the dish with a vibrant taste, making it a true crowd-pleaser.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With minimal prep and cook time, this skillet dish transforms typical taco night into a quick and enjoyable experience. Whether you're feeding a family or just looking for a satisfying meal for yourself, this recipe adapts seamlessly to your needs.

Customizable to Your Taste

One of the best features of the Ground Beef Taco Skillet is its versatility. You can easily customize the toppings to suit everyone’s preferences. Whether you like it spicy with jalapeños or fresh with avocado and cilantro, this dish allows each person to build their perfect taco experience. Plus, you can swap out the ground beef for turkey or even a plant-based alternative, making it suitable for various dietary needs.

Additionally, you can add other ingredients based on what you have on hand. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even some spices can elevate this dish and make it uniquely yours. The possibilities are endless, ensuring that you can enjoy this meal time and time again without it ever feeling repetitive.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This Ground Beef Taco Skillet is not only quick to prepare but also makes for excellent meal prep. You can easily double the recipe and store leftovers in the fridge for up to four days. Just reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop for a fast and flavorful lunch or dinner. It’s ideal for busy weekdays when you want something hearty and satisfying without the fuss of cooking from scratch.

Furthermore, you can package the skillet into individual portions, making it easy to grab and go. Pair it with some tortilla chips, a side salad, or even some rice for a complete meal. This dish is not just a time-saver; it’s also a smart way to reduce food waste while enjoying a tasty meal throughout the week.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz), undrained
1 cup corn, frozen or canned
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Salt and pepper to taste

Toppings

Chopped fresh cilantro
Sour cream
Sliced jalapeños
Sliced avocado
Chopped lettuce
Diced tomatoes

Gather all ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.

Add Seasoning

Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, corn, and black beans. Mix well and let simmer for 10 minutes.

Add Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top and cover the skillet until the cheese is melted, about 3-5 minutes.

Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with your favorite toppings. Serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Taco Skillet with friends and family!

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing them is straightforward. Allow the Ground Beef Taco Skillet to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers. Just be sure to label them with the date for easy tracking.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. This dish can also be microwaved, making it a convenient option for quick meals.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement your Ground Beef Taco Skillet, consider serving it with a side of tortilla chips and salsa for an extra crunch. A fresh salad with lime vinaigrette can also balance the rich flavors of the skillet, providing a refreshing contrast. If you prefer a heartier meal, serve it over rice or in taco shells for a fun twist.

For beverages, a light beer or refreshing iced tea works well, enhancing the overall dining experience. You can also serve margaritas for a festive touch, perfect for taco night celebrations.

Nutritional Highlights

This Ground Beef Taco Skillet not only satisfies your taste buds but also packs a nutritional punch. Ground beef provides a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals, while beans add fiber and healthy carbohydrates, making the dish filling and nutritious.

Incorporating vegetables like corn and tomatoes adds vitamins A and C, while the optional toppings like avocado and cilantro contribute healthy fats and antioxidants. Ultimately, this meal is balanced, making it a great choice for a nourishing weeknight dinner.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute and will work just as well.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the beef with a mix of beans and vegetables.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the skillet for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.