When you’re craving bold Tex-Mex flavors but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, this Easy Beef Taco Skillet is your go-to meal. It combines savory ground beef, zesty taco seasoning, melty cheese, and crisp tortilla chips into a comforting, one-pan wonder. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish delivers convenience and taste in every bite.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.
- One-Pan Convenience: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings, switch up the protein, or make it vegetarian.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A hit with kids and adults alike!
Ingredients for Easy Beef Taco Skillet
For this simple yet flavorful dish, you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen or canned corn (drained if canned)
- 1 packet (or 2 tbsp) taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
Optional Toppings:
- Sliced jalapeños
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Sour cream
- Diced avocado
- Salsa or pico de gallo
- Sliced green onions
- Lime wedges for a burst of citrus
How to Make Easy Beef Taco Skillet
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess grease if needed.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Seasonings and Liquids
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef mixture and stir to coat evenly. Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, black beans, corn, and beef broth. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Chips
Reduce the heat to low and sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts. Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips over the dish just before serving for added crunch.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Top with your favorite garnishes like fresh cilantro, sour cream, and sliced avocado. Serve warm and enjoy!
Variations & Customizations
Make It Spicier
- Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Use hot taco seasoning instead of mild.
- Drizzle with hot sauce before serving.
Swap the Protein
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Try plant-based crumbles or lentils for a vegetarian twist.
Low-Carb Version
- Skip the tortilla chips and serve over cauliflower rice.
- Use low-carb tortillas as a base.
Extra Cheesy
- Mix in cream cheese or a bit of queso for extra creaminess.
- Double the shredded cheese for a cheesier finish.
What to Serve with Easy Beef Taco Skillet
This dish is hearty on its own, but if you’re looking to round out the meal, here are some great sides:
- Mexican Rice: A perfect complement to the skillet’s flavors.
- Guacamole & Chips: Fresh and creamy avocado goodness.
- Refried Beans: Adds extra protein and fiber.
- Side Salad: A crisp and refreshing balance to the rich skillet.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Storing Leftovers
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
- Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Beef Taco Skillet is a lifesaver for busy nights when you want a delicious, satisfying meal without a ton of effort. Packed with bold flavors, gooey cheese, and crunchy tortilla chips, it’s a recipe that will quickly become a household favorite. Plus, with endless ways to customize, you can make it your own every time you cook it.
Easy Beef Taco Skillet
Description
This Easy Beef Taco Skillet is a one-pan meal packed with juicy seasoned beef, black beans, tomatoes, and melted cheese, ready in under 30 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is a flavorful, crowd-pleasing favorite that can be served with tortilla chips, over rice, or in taco shells.
Ingredients
For the Skillet:
For the Toppings:
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Brown the Beef
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add Seasonings and Vegetables
- Stir in taco seasoning, salt, and black pepper, ensuring the beef is evenly coated. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, black beans, corn, and water. Mix well and bring to a gentle simmer.
Simmer the Mixture
- Lower the heat to medium and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Melt the Cheese
- Sprinkle cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the skillet. Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes.
Garnish & Serve
- Remove from heat and top with sour cream, green onions, cilantro, and jalapeño slices. Serve warm with tortilla chips, over rice, or inside taco shells.
Note
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat.
- Freezing: Freeze the cooked beef mixture (without cheese) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Spice Level: Adjust heat by adding more or less taco seasoning or jalapeños.
- Serving Ideas: Serve over rice, in lettuce wraps, or inside soft/hard taco shells.
