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 pound ground beef; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 cup bell peppers, diced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen); Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese of your choice; Sour cream; Chopped cilantro; Sliced jalapeños; Diced avocados; Lime wedges

Highlighted under: Quick Treats

I love how simple and satisfying this Easy Ground Beef Taco Skillet recipe is! In just one pan, I can whip up a flavorful meal that brings together all the essential ingredients for classic tacos. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner solution, especially when I'm short on time but still want something delicious. With the savory seasoned beef and colorful vegetables, my family always comes back for seconds.

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:52:19.797Z

When I first tried making a taco skillet, I wanted to capture the essence of tacos without all the mess. I simmered the ground beef with onions, garlic, and my favorite spices to make sure each bite was bursting with flavor. Using my trusty skillet, I realized how easy it can be to create a hearty meal all in one place, reducing cleanup time significantly!

One tip I discovered is to finish the dish with fresh toppings like cilantro and diced avocados. It adds a vibrant touch and elevates the whole meal, making a sometimes casual dinner feel special. My family now considers this a go-to dish!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and efficient one-pan meal
Packed with delicious taco flavors
Easily customizable with your favorite toppings

      

Mastering the Technique

One of the keys to achieving a delectable ground beef texture is to brown it effectively. When cooking the beef, ensure that your skillet is hot enough; this will help create a nice sear, enhancing the flavor. The beef should change from pink to brown and produce a slightly crispy texture at the edges. Don't rush this step; allow the beef to sit undisturbed for a few minutes to develop those golden bits that will add depth to your dish.

When you’re mixing in the taco seasoning, make sure to coat the beef evenly. This not only infuses each bite with flavor but also helps the seasoning to stick to the meat rather than just the surface. Consider sprinkling the seasoning in stages—first, while browning the beef, and then after adding the vegetables—to layer the flavors effectively.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of cheese is crucial in this taco skillet recipe. I recommend using a blend of cheeses for a richer flavor; cheddar provides sharpness, while mozzarella adds creaminess. If you’re looking to make this dish a bit healthier, consider using reduced-fat cheese or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cheese. Just ensure any substitute you choose melts well to maintain the dish's creamy texture.

Colorful bell peppers not only add a crunch but also a nutritional boost with vitamin C and antioxidants. For added heat, jalapeño or poblano peppers can also be included. If you’re aiming for a low-carb version, you might substitute the corn with additional veggies like zucchini or mushrooms that soak up the taco flavors beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

For the Taco Skillet

1 pound ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet taco seasoning
1 cup bell peppers, diced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese of your choice

For Toppings (optional)

Sour cream
Chopped cilantro
Sliced jalapeños
Diced avocados
Lime wedges

Feel free to swap ingredients based on your preferences or what's on hand!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for a delicious taco skillet.

Sauté the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Mix in Seasoning and Vegetables

Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef and mix well. Then, stir in the bell peppers, diced tomatoes, and corn. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cook and Melt

Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 10 minutes. Remove the lid, sprinkle cheese on top, and allow it to melt!

Serve with Toppings

Spoon the taco skillet into bowls and top with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, cilantro, and jalapeños.

Enjoy your delicious taco skillet with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a teaspoon of chili powder to the beef while cooking. You can also use ground turkey or chicken as a healthier alternative to beef.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Easy Ground Beef Taco Skillet is a fantastic candidate for meal prep. You can prepare the beef and vegetable mixture ahead of time; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This not only saves cooking time during busy weekdays but also helps the flavors meld together even better.

If you’d like to freeze portions for longer storage, let the skillet cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. For best results after freezing, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove; you may want to add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Serving Suggestions

The versatility of this taco skillet allows for multiple serving styles. You can serve it over a bed of lettuce for a fresh salad, or spoon it into warmed tortillas for traditional tacos. For a fun twist, try serving it with tortilla chips and turning it into a taco dip. Just sprinkle additional cheese on top and bake until bubbly for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Don’t skimp on the toppings! A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy tang, while fresh cilantro offers brightness. Avocado or guacamole not only enhances the flavor but also provides healthy fats, making each bite satisfying. Lime wedges are essential for a splash of acidity that elevates the flavors—don’t forget to squeeze them over just before serving for the best effect!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before reheating.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

Ground turkey or chicken work well, or you can use black beans for a vegetarian option.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked taco skillet for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.

→ What kind of cheese works best?

Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but you can also try Monterey Jack or Mexican blend for a different flavor.