Description
Cheesy Taco Skillet is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal featuring seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, and melted cheddar cheese. This easy-to-make Tex-Mex dish captures classic taco flavors in a simple skillet recipe perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Meat and Seasoning
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 oz)
Vegetables
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
Dairy and Oils
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil: Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables and browning the meat.
- Sauté Onions: Add 1/2 cup diced onions into the heated skillet and cook until they become soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Brown Ground Beef: Add 1 lb ground beef to the skillet with the onions. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spatula, until fully browned, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to prevent greasiness.
- Add Seasoning and Vegetables: Sprinkle 1 packet of taco seasoning over the browned beef. Stir in 1 cup corn kernels, 1 cup diced tomatoes, and 1/2 cup black beans thoroughly to combine all the flavors.
- Simmer Mixture: Reduce heat slightly and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld and the ingredients heat through evenly.
- Add Cheese: Evenly sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the skillet mixture to create a cheesy layer.
- Melt Cheese: Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 2-3 minutes until the cheddar cheese is fully melted and gooey.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve the cheesy taco skillet warm. It pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, rice, or inside taco shells for a complete meal.
Notes
- For extra spice, add sliced jalapeños along with the vegetables.
- Serve with tortilla chips, steamed rice, or warm taco shells to vary the presentation and texture.
- This dish can be customized by using ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex