Easy Ground Beef Taco Skillet

Name: Easy 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 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 cup corn (canned or frozen); 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice); Chopped fresh cilantro; Diced avocado; Sour cream; Chopped green onions; Sliced jalapeños

Highlighted under: Quick Recipe Vault

I love preparing this Easy Ground Beef Taco Skillet when I want a quick and delicious meal that's packed with flavor. This recipe has become my go-to for busy weeknights, as it takes only 30 minutes to make from start to finish. The best part is that it uses simple ingredients that I usually have on hand, making it affordable as well. Plus, the vibrant colors and spices bring life to the dinner table, making it an enjoyable dish for the whole family.

Created by

Lydia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:40:10.586Z

When I first made this Easy Ground Beef Taco Skillet, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. The combination of spices really elevates the dish, and I love that I can modify the heat level by adjusting the seasonings.

One tip I discovered is to add a splash of lime juice right before serving; it brightens up the flavors and gives the dish a fresh kick. It's a simple trick that makes a big difference, and I've received compliments every time I make it!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A one-pan meal that saves time on cleanup
Customizable toppings to suit everyone's taste
Rich and satisfying flavors in every bite

Mastering the Skillet Technique

One of the keys to a successful Ground Beef Taco Skillet is the technique used to brown the beef. Use a large skillet to ensure the beef has enough space to brown rather than steam. Cooking over medium heat allows the beef to develop a nice crust without burning. Stir occasionally, breaking it apart with a spatula, until you see that telltale brown color. This process not only enhances the flavor but also creates a base for the rest of the ingredients.

Another essential technique is the incorporation of spices. When you add the taco seasoning after browning the beef, let it cook for a minute before adding the liquids. This technique, called 'blooming the spices,' intensifies their flavors and allows them to infuse into the beef, resulting in a more aromatic and flavorful dish.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of tomatoes in this skillet can significantly impact the flavor profile. If you opt for canned diced tomatoes, choose those without added salt or flavors for better control over the dish's seasoning. Fresh tomatoes work wonderfully too; use ripe ones for a burst of natural sweetness. Feel free to customize this aspect based on what's in season or what you have on hand, as tomatoes bring freshness and acidity that balance the savory beef and spices.

Don’t overlook the importance of cheese in this recipe. While cheddar is commonly used, consider trying pepper jack for an extra kick or a Mexican blend for added depth. Since the cheese is added at the end, it melts and creates a creamy texture that envelops the rest of the ingredients. Make sure to use a fresh, quality cheese for the best results—pre-shredded options often contain anti-caking agents that can affect melting quality.

Serving and Storage Tips

When serving your Easy Ground Beef Taco Skillet, consider setting up a taco bar with various toppings. This encourages creativity and allows everyone to customize their servings. Alongside your suggested toppings, you could include crushed tortilla chips for added crunch, salsa for freshness, or even some hot sauce for those who like it spicy. This interactive component can make mealtime fun, especially for kids.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent it from drying out. This dish also freezes well; simply let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the skillet for a quick meal the next day.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet taco seasoning
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)

For Toppings

Chopped fresh cilantro
Diced avocado
Sour cream
Chopped green onions
Sliced jalapeños

Instructions

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add the Vegetables

Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Season and Simmer

Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, corn, and black beans. Stir well and let simmer for another 5 minutes until heated through.

Add Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the mixture, cover, and let it melt for 2-3 minutes.

Serve

Remove from heat and top with your favorite toppings before serving. Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

To make this dish even faster, you can use pre-cooked ground beef or leftover taco meat. Additionally, consider using a mix of beans for added texture and flavor.

Making Variations

This recipe is easily adaptable to accommodate dietary preferences or needs. For a healthier option, you can substitute half of the ground beef with lean ground turkey or beyond meat for a plant-based version. The texture and flavor remain fulfilling, and you still achieve that comforting taste associated with tacos. Experimenting with different beans, like pinto or kidney beans, can also add a unique twist to the dish.

If you're looking for a unique flavor profile, consider adding diced bell peppers or zucchini to the skillet. These vegetables will not only enhance the dish's nutritional value but also contribute to its colorful presentation. Sauté them alongside the onion and garlic for the best results, ensuring they soften while maintaining a bit of crunch.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your skillet ends up too watery, it could be due to excess moisture from the vegetables or tomatoes. To remedy this, simply increase the cooking time and allow for evaporation. Keeping the skillet uncovered while it simmers can help this process, concentrating the flavors and resulting in a thicker consistency.

Another common issue is uneven cooking of the ground beef. Make sure to break the beef into small, uniform pieces during the browning process. If you find that it’s not cooking evenly, you may need to adjust your heat level or give it a bit more time. Use a meat thermometer to check; ideally, ground beef should reach an internal temperature of 160°F for safe consumption.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ground beef with lentils, quinoa, or a plant-based meat alternative for a delicious vegetarian option.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

→ What sides go well with this dish?

This skillet is great on its own, but you can serve it with rice, tortilla chips, or a side salad for a complete meal.

→ Can I freeze this taco skillet?

Yes! Allow it to cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.