If you’re craving a vibrant, comforting meal that perfectly balances bold flavors with simple ingredients, this Ground Beef Taco Skillet Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a one-pan wonder that comes together quickly, layering seasoned ground beef, tender vegetables, crunchy tortilla strips, and melty cheddar into a dish bursting with warmth and zest. Whether you’re cooking a weeknight dinner or feeding a hungry crowd, this recipe brings the fiesta to your table in an easy, satisfying way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by the ingredient list — these basics are what make the Ground Beef Taco Skillet Recipe shine. Each element plays a special role, adding layers of texture and dynamic tastes from smoky spices to fresh veggies and creamy cheese, ensuring every bite is exciting and delicious.
- 6 corn tortillas: Provide the perfect base with a toasty crunch when cooked and soften to soak up all those rich flavors.
- 1 pound 85/15 ground beef: Offers hearty, savory protein that forms the foundation of this skillet delight.
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil: A smooth, neutral oil that helps soften veggies and brings out their natural sweetness without overpowering.
- 1 small sweet onion (thinly sliced): Adds a mild, caramelized flavor that balances the spices beautifully.
- 2 bell peppers (seeded and sliced): Bring bright color and a subtle crisp bite, rounding out the dish’s textures.
- 3 garlic cloves (finely minced): Impart a fragrant punch that enhances the meat and vegetables.
- ½ cup chicken broth (divided): Keeps everything moist and helps the tortillas soften to a lovely, stew-like texture.
- 1 tablespoon cumin: Provides that earthy, warm undertone that’s essential to taco flavor.
- 2 teaspoons paprika: Adds depth and subtle smokiness to the mix.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Brings a gentle heat and vibrant complexity.
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For those who want a spicy kick to elevate the dish.
- 1 ¼ teaspoons salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just enough sharpness without overwhelming.
- 1 (16-ounce) jar salsa: A flavorful tomato base that ties everything together with freshness and tang.
- 1 (15.25-ounce) can corn (drained): Sweet pops of corn brighten the dish, adding texture and color.
- 1 (15.5-ounce) can black beans (drained and rinsed): Offer a hearty, creamy contrast to the beef and veggies.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts to luscious perfection, giving the skillet a rich, indulgent finish.
- Fresh cilantro (chopped, optional): Adds a lively, fresh herbal note to brighten every forkful.
- Sour cream (optional): A cooling, tangy topping that complements the spices beautifully.
How to Make Ground Beef Taco Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Slice the Tortillas
Start by stacking your corn tortillas on a cutting board and cutting them in half. Then, slice each half width-wise into six even strips. These strips will soak up all the delicious flavors and create the comforting texture that makes this dish so special.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium and add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula and cook it for 7 to 8 minutes until browned and no longer pink. This is where the savory base is built, so let the beef get a nice caramelized color before removing it from the skillet and setting it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Wipe out the skillet, then add the avocado oil and return to medium heat. Toss in the thinly sliced onions and bell peppers, cooking them until they soften and develop subtle sweetness — about 4 to 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to release its aromatic goodness. Pour in 1/4 cup of chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful browned bits lurking on the bottom.
Step 4: Season and Combine
Mix together cumin, paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper if you’re using it, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Sprinkle this seasoning mix over the veggies in the skillet, then add back the cooked ground beef along with the salsa, corn, and black beans. Toss everything until the ingredients meld beautifully and the mixture looks vibrant and full of promise.
Step 5: Incorporate the Tortilla Strips
Add the tortilla strips to the skillet along with the remaining 1/4 cup of chicken broth. Mix again to coat all the strips with the zesty blend of spices and salsa, allowing them to soften up during cooking and turn tender in every bite.
Step 6: Simmer and Cheese It Up
Cover the skillet, lower the heat to a gentle simmer, and cook for 12 to 15 minutes until the tortillas are tender and the flavors have melded together. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top and cook just a couple more minutes until it melts into a gooey, irresistible layer.
How to Serve Ground Beef Taco Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped cilantro adds a bright and vibrant touch, bringing a burst of herbal freshness that complements the rich flavors beautifully. A dollop of sour cream is the perfect cooling element to balance the spices and add a creamy texture that makes each bite even more enjoyable.
Side Dishes
This skillet is a great main event on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or simple Mexican street corn can elevate your meal. Light, fresh sides will bring contrast to the richness, while pairing with rice or warm beans will stretch the dish for larger gatherings.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Ground Beef Taco Skillet Recipe family-style right from the pan for a cozy, casual vibe. Or, scoop portions into colorful bowls and top with extra avocado slices or pickled jalapeños for added brightness. For a festive touch, let everyone add their own garnishes and sides for a fun, interactive dinner experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Ground Beef Taco Skillet Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next-day meal just as tasty and comforting.
Freezing
This skillet freezes well if you want to save some for later. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to keep the tortilla strips tender and prevent drying out. Adding a splash of chicken broth can revive the moisture and make it taste freshly cooked again. Alternatively, the microwave works fine if you cover the dish to trap steam.
FAQs
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
You can substitute flour tortillas if corn tortillas aren’t an option, though the texture and flavor will shift slightly. Corn tortillas provide the authentic crunch and slight chewiness that make this recipe special, but flour tortillas will still work fine in a pinch.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or extra beans to keep it hearty. You can also add more veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for added depth, and just adjust the seasoning to taste.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Definitely! The optional cayenne pepper is a great place to start, but you could also add chopped fresh jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat. Just remember to adjust gradually to keep the spice balanced with all the other flavors.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Cheddar cheese is lovely for melting and flavor, but feel free to swap it out with Monterey Jack, pepper jack for some heat, or even a Mexican blend cheese to keep things interesting.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, chopping the vegetables and mixing the spices beforehand can save time on the day of cooking. You could also brown the ground beef ahead and refrigerate it, then combine everything when ready to heat through and serve.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef Taco Skillet Recipe is pure comfort food that brings family and friends together with its bold flavors and satisfying textures. It’s easy enough to whip up any night of the week, yet special enough to impress. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with this warm, cheesy, savory celebration of all things taco. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
Print
Ground Beef Taco Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
A flavorful and easy Ground Beef Taco Skillet recipe that combines seasoned ground beef, sautéed vegetables, tortilla strips, and melted cheddar cheese for a comforting one-pan Mexican-inspired meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Meat and Oil
- 1 pound 85/15 ground beef
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
Vegetables
- 1 small sweet onion (thinly sliced)
- 2 bell peppers (seeded and cut into 2-inch slices)
- 3 garlic cloves (finely minced)
Liquids and Broth
- ½ cup chicken broth (divided)
- 1 (16-ounce) jar salsa
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 ¼ teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Other Ingredients
- 6 corn tortillas
- 1 (15.25-ounce) can corn (drained)
- 1 (15.5-ounce) can black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro (chopped, optional)
- Sour cream (optional)
Instructions
- Slice tortillas: Stack the six corn tortillas on a cutting board, cut them in half, then slice each half width-wise into 6 even strips. Set aside the tortilla strips until ready to use.
- Cook meat: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula, for 7-8 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Remove the beef from the skillet and place it on a clean plate.
- Cook veggies: Wipe out the skillet, add the avocado oil, and return to medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the sliced onion and bell peppers. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in 1/4 cup of chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to loosen any browned bits.
- Bring it all together: In a small bowl, whisk together the cumin, paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Add this seasoning mix to the skillet along with the cooked ground beef, salsa, drained corn, and rinsed black beans. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Add tortilla strips: Add the tortilla strips and the remaining 1/4 cup of chicken broth to the skillet. Toss until all the tortilla strips are coated with the mixture.
- Simmer: Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 12-15 minutes, allowing the tortillas to become tender while absorbing flavors. Afterward, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve warm for a delicious, hearty meal.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños when cooking the peppers.
- The dish can be made with gluten-free corn tortillas to keep it gluten free.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To make this vegetarian, substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth.
- If chicken broth is unavailable, substitute with vegetable broth or water.
