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 medium onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Family Food

I absolutely love making this Ground Beef Taco Skillet whenever I need a quick and satisfying meal. It brings the classic flavors of tacos into a one-pan dish that is incredibly easy to prepare. In just 30 minutes, you can have a hearty dinner that the whole family will enjoy. Plus, it’s a great way to use up whatever veggies you have on hand. I usually serve it with some warm tortillas on the side, but it’s just as good on its own, packed with flavor and goodness.

Created by

Dahlia Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:37:36.959Z

When I first tried this Ground Beef Taco Skillet, I was amazed by how all the flavors blended together in one dish. Cooking the beef with taco seasoning and fresh vegetables created a symphony of taste that reminded me of my favorite tacos. It’s an effortless way to transform traditional taco night into a simplified version without sacrificing flavor.

One tip that I discovered is to add a splash of lime juice at the end. This perfectly balances the richness of the beef and enhances the freshness of the veggies. Trust me, it elevates the dish and is a game-changer!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick one-pan meal ready in just 30 minutes
Bold and flavorful taco seasoning blends perfectly
Versatile: customize with your favorite veggies

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in the Ground Beef Taco Skillet plays a crucial role in building flavor and texture. The ground beef is the star, providing a savory base that absorbs the spices well. Choosing a good-quality 80/20 ground beef ensures that your dish remains juicy and flavorful. For a healthier option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken, which will still absorb the taco seasoning nicely but may require an extra splash of oil to prevent dryness.

Onions and bell peppers not only add sweetness but also depth and color to the dish. When sautéing the onions until they are translucent, aim for a golden hue, as this indicates they’ve caramelized and will impart a richer flavor. I often add garlic to the mix for an extra kick, as it complements the spices beautifully and adds aromatic depth. Feel free to experiment with bell pepper colors—red, yellow, and orange all contribute different sweetness levels.

Cooking Techniques

Using a large skillet allows for even cooking and prevents overcrowding, which can cause steaming instead of browning. When you add the veggies to the ground beef, ensure they are well distributed in the pan for optimal cooking. Stir occasionally to avoid burning and to promote even cooking. The bell peppers should be tender but still slightly crisp, which usually takes about 5 minutes on medium heat.

When mixing in the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes, it’s vital to let this simmer, as this melds the flavors together. You can achieve the ideal consistency by covering the skillet with a lid during simmering, which helps trap moisture and ensures everything cooks uniformly. If you prefer a saucier dish, you can add a splash of water or broth at this stage, adjusting based on your preference.

Serving and Storage Tips

While I serve this skillet hot with warm tortillas on the side, you can also top it with your favorite garnishes such as shredded cheese, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream to elevate the dish even further. Fresh cilantro adds a bright note as well. For a crunchy texture, some crushed tortilla chips sprinkled on top can add a delightful contrast, enhancing the taco experience.

If you have leftovers, this dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat to avoid drying it out. You can also freeze portions of this skillet for up to three months. Just thaw completely in the fridge before reheating to retain the best texture and flavor. Keep in mind that ingredients like corn and beans hold up nicely in freezing, making this a favorite for meal prep!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Ground Beef Taco Skillet:

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 packet taco seasoning
1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to mix and match your favorite ingredients to make this dish your own!

Instructions

Here’s how to whip up this delicious skillet:

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with diced onion until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the bell pepper, and cook for about 5 minutes until softened.

Mix in Other Ingredients

Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, and corn. Stir to combine and let simmer for another 5 minutes.

Season and Serve

Taste and add salt and pepper as necessary. Serve hot, garnished with lime juice and your choice of toppings.

Enjoy your flavorful Ground Beef Taco Skillet!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding jalapeños or chili powder to the beef mixture while cooking. Toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped cilantro can enhance the dish even further.

Customizations and Variations

One of the beauties of the Ground Beef Taco Skillet is its versatility. You can easily customize this dish according to what you have on hand or what you prefer. For a vegetarian version, swap out the beef for lentils or crumbled tofu, seasoning it similarly to maintain that zesty taco flavor. Mushrooms can also be added for an earthy note, which pairs beautifully with the spices.

Feel free to introduce other vegetables based on your preference or seasonal produce. Zucchini, corn, or carrots can be diced and added during the vegetable stage for more nutrition and flavor. You could also add a can of green chilies for extra heat or experiment with different seasoning blends for a unique twist on the traditional taco flavor profile.

Potential Troubleshooting

If your Ground Beef Taco Skillet comes out too wet, it could be due to excess liquid in the tomatoes or beans. To remedy this, simply remove the lid while simmering to allow some of the moisture to evaporate. Stirring in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water can also help thicken the sauce without altering the flavor.

On the flip side, if your skillet seems dry, you can add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. Just remember to taste as you adjust, ensuring that you maintain the bold flavors that the taco seasoning contributes. If ever the seasoning feels off, a squeeze of lime juice can brighten the whole dish and balance out the flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative and works well in this recipe.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free taco seasoning, this dish is gluten-free.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with lentils or crumbled tofu for a delicious vegetarian version.

→ 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 stove.