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 medium onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 cup corn, frozen or canned; Salt and pepper to taste; Shredded cheese; Sour cream; Chopped cilantro; Sliced jalapeños; Avocado slices

Highlighted under: Easy Comfort Dishes

I love making this Easy Ground Beef Taco Skillet on busy weeknights when I need something quick and satisfying. The flavors blend beautifully, making it feel like a fiesta in a pan! With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, I can whip up a meal that the whole family enjoys. It’s perfect for serving over rice or with warm tortillas on the side, bringing a taste of Mexican cuisine right to my kitchen. This dish has become a staple in our home due to its amazing taste and ease of preparation.

Created by

Adele Summers

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:46:15.050Z

When I first tried this Easy Ground Beef Taco Skillet, I was amazed at how quickly it came together without sacrificing flavor. I love that I can customize it with whatever toppings I have on hand, from avocados to cheese. It truly makes dinnertime a delightful experience.

One trick I discovered is to let the skillet sit for a few extra minutes off the heat after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld even more, creating a taste explosion in every bite! Plus, it’s easy to clean up afterward, which is a huge win in my book.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and effortless while packed with flavor
Versatile for meal prepping or family dinners
Perfect for customizing with your favorite toppings

      

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this Easy Ground Beef Taco Skillet plays a crucial role in creating a cohesive flavor profile. The ground beef provides a rich, savory base, while the bell pepper adds a slight sweetness and crunch. Choosing a fresh onion that’s firm and a vibrant color ensures optimal flavor. Don’t forget the garlic; it should be minced finely to release its aromatic oils and blend seamlessly with the other veggies.

The taco seasoning is a powerhouse of flavor. If you prefer a homemade version, consider combining chili powder, cumin, onion powder, and paprika for a personalized touch. The canned diced tomatoes with green chilies introduce acidity and a hint of heat—choose a brand that specifies 'fire-roasted' for an elevated smoky flavor. Feel free to adjust the spices based on your heat tolerance.

Cooking Techniques

When browning the ground beef, aim for a medium-high heat and stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than browning, so consider working in batches if needed. You want that delicious golden color to develop, which adds depth to the dish. A good tip is to use a wooden spoon to break up the meat into small pieces, ensuring it cooks uniformly.

Once you've added the vegetables, look for them to soften and become slightly glossy. This usually takes about 5 minutes. Keep an eye on the garlic; it can burn quickly, so add it towards the end of your vegetable sauté. For the simmering step, maintain a low heat to allow flavors to meld without boiling, which can evaporate moisture and make the dish dry.

Ingredients

For the Taco Skillet

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 cup corn, frozen or canned
Salt and pepper to taste

For Toppings

Shredded cheese
Sour cream
Chopped cilantro
Sliced jalapeños
Avocado slices

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Add Vegetables

To the skillet, add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the veggies are tender.

Season it Up

Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with chilies, and corn. Mix everything thoroughly until well incorporated.

Simmer

Reduce heat and let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, top with hot sauce or serve with a side of tortilla chips for crunch. Utilizing ground turkey or chicken can make this a leaner option while maintaining delicious flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This taco skillet is versatile and can be served over fluffy rice for a hearty meal or alongside warm tortillas for a fiesta-style dinner. For a lighter option, consider incorporating shredded lettuce and tomatoes as a fresh garnish. I often add a side of black beans or refried beans to enhance the protein while keeping it true to Mexican cuisine.

For extra flavor, squeeze a wedge of lime over the dish before serving—it complements the spices beautifully. You can also set up a toppings bar so everyone can customize their plates. This not only encourages creativity but also turns mealtime into an interactive experience, perfect for family gatherings.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Stir frequently until warmed through, typically around 5-7 minutes. This prevents the mixture from drying out while ensuring every bite is as delicious as when it was first made.

For longer storage, consider freezing the taco skillet. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop, as mentioned, or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meats can work well in this recipe.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ground beef with black beans or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of beef.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It's great over rice or quinoa, and you can also serve it with warm tortillas for a complete meal.