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 pound ground beef; 1 onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); 1 cup corn (frozen or canned); Salt and pepper to taste; Toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, chopped cilantro, lime wedges

Highlighted under: Instant Quick Meals Recipes

I absolutely love a quick and delicious meal, and this Ground Beef Taco Skillet is a perfect example. When I’m short on time but craving something hearty, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes. It's packed with flavor and requires minimal cleanup, making it my go-to for busy weeknights. The blend of spices truly elevates the ground beef, and the addition of fresh toppings allows everyone to customize their own plate. Trust me, it’s a meal the whole family will enjoy!

Created by

Florence Keaton

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:45:34.886Z

When I first created this Ground Beef Taco Skillet, I wanted something that could satisfy my family without taking too long to prepare. I experimented with various spices and toppings, exploring how each ingredient could enhance the overall flavor. The combination of cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder truly brings out the essence of tacos in a skillet form. It has become a staple in our home.

One little tip I picked up along the way is to let the beef brown well before adding in the other ingredients. This extra step intensifies the flavor and gives that lovely texture that keeps every bite satisfying. Plus, serving it with fresh cilantro and lime at the end really brightens up the dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare in just 30 minutes
Flavorful blend of spices that captures the essence of tacos
Customizable with your favorite toppings

Choosing Your Ground Beef

The type of ground beef you choose can significantly impact the flavor and texture of your taco skillet. For optimal taste, I prefer using ground beef with a fat content of 80/20, as this strikes the right balance between flavor and juiciness. Leaner ground beef can lead to a drier dish, whereas fattier options might result in excess grease. If you want a healthier version, ground turkey or chicken can also work well, but be prepared to adjust seasoning since they are milder in flavor.

If you're looking for a beef substitute, consider textured vegetable protein (TVP). This plant-based option hydrates quickly and absorbs flavors well, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians. Just soak it in warm water or broth before adding it to the skillet. Remember that TVP may need a little extra taco seasoning to ensure it mimics the flavor profile of traditional ground beef.

Mastering the Spice Blend

The taco seasoning is the backbone of this dish, offering that classic taco flavor in every bite. If you're using a store-bought mix, be sure to check the sodium content, as many mixes can be quite salty. Alternatively, I recommend making your own blend using chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. This way, you have control over the spice level and can adjust it to your family’s taste. Use about 2-3 tablespoons of your homemade seasoning for the recipe.

When sprinkling the seasoning, allow it to toast for a minute before adding liquids. This technique enhances the flavors, creating a more aromatic base. You'll know it's ready when you start to smell the spices wafting in the air. Also, consider adding a pinch of cayenne for heat or a touch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a hearty and flavorful dish!

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, chopped cilantro, lime wedges

Feel free to mix and match the toppings to suit your taste!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Ground Beef Taco Skillet.

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add the Vegetables

Stir in the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Season and Simmer

Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the mixture. Add the canned tomatoes and corn, and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the skillet directly from the pan with your favorite toppings. Enjoy your flavorful and quick meal!

Don't hesitate to get creative with your toppings!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes during cooking.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, you can store the Ground Beef Taco Skillet in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, I suggest warming it on the stovetop over medium heat for even heat distribution. Stir occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick to the pan and heat until thoroughly warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

For longer storage, this dish can be frozen for up to three months. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it in the skillet or microwave. The flavors may meld even more during storage!

Serving Suggestions

This Ground Beef Taco Skillet is versatile and can be served in various ways. I love serving it in taco shells for a traditional taco night feel, but it’s equally delicious over a bed of rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal. Adding tortilla chips on the side provides a great crunch and fun dip! You can also make a taco salad by layering greens at the bottom and topping with the skillet mix and garnishes.

To elevate the presentation, consider garnishing with fresh lime wedges and cilantro. A sprinkle of chopped jalapeños can add a zesty kick, while a dollop of sour cream will mellow out the spice. This customization ensures everyone enjoys a meal suited to their palette, enhancing the whole dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner option.

→ How can I make this vegetarian?

Substitute the beef with lentils or a mix of beans for a delicious vegetarian version.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the beef mixture in advance and reheat it when you're ready to serve.

→ What side dishes pair well with this skillet?

Consider serving it with a fresh salad or tortilla chips to complement the flavors.