Introduction
Tired of dinnertime drama? This One-Pan Mexican Ground Beef Skillet is your new best friend! We’re transforming simple, everyday ingredients into a fiesta of flavor that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Get ready for happy tummies and even happier cleanup! 🎉
Why This Works
This recipe is a winner because it’s ridiculously easy, incredibly delicious, and requires only ONE pan! Less mess, more time with your family – that’s a win-win in our book. Plus, it’s super customizable, so you can tailor it to everyone’s tastes.
Key Ingredients
- 🥩 1 lb ground beef
- 🧅 1 medium onion, chopped
- 🫑 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 🥫 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 🫘 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 🌶️ 1 packet taco seasoning
- 🧀 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 🌿 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Heat a large skillet (oven-safe preferred) over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
2️⃣ Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3️⃣ Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), kidney beans, and taco seasoning. Bring to a simmer.
4️⃣ Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes, or until heated through and the flavors have melded.
5️⃣ Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. If using an oven-safe skillet, broil for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If not oven-safe, cover and let the cheese melt from the residual heat.
6️⃣ Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Handy Tips
- For extra flavor, brown the ground beef with a little diced jalapeño pepper. 🔥
- Don’t overcook the ground beef! It should be browned, but not dry and crumbly.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, like corn or zucchini. 🌽🥕
Heat Control
Medium-high heat is used initially to brown the ground beef quickly. Then, we lower the heat to low to simmer the mixture gently and prevent burning. This ensures that the flavors develop fully without scorching the ingredients.
Crunch Factor
While this recipe isn’t particularly crunchy, the slight texture from the bell pepper and kidney beans adds a nice contrast to the soft ground beef. If you want more crunch, consider adding some tortilla chips or crispy fried onions as a topping.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For a shortcut, use pre-chopped onions and bell peppers.
- Add a splash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat! 🥵
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of ground beef and chorizo sausage.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This dish isn’t typically gifted, but you could package individual servings in cute disposable containers for a potluck or casual gathering.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy: Add a diced jalapeño or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
🌟 Cheesy: Use a blend of cheeses, such as Monterey Jack and pepper jack.
🌟 Southwestern: Add a can of drained and rinsed black beans and some diced corn.
🌟 Creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving.
Troubleshooting
- Too dry: Add a little water or chicken broth while simmering.
- Not flavorful enough: Increase the amount of taco seasoning or add a pinch of cumin and chili powder.
- Burnt: Reduce the heat immediately and stir frequently.
FAQ
- Can I use different beans? Absolutely! Black beans, pinto beans, or a mixture of beans would all work well.
- Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes! Brown the ground beef and vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Can I prep this ahead of time? You can chop the vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
This One-Pan Mexican Ground Beef Skillet is a true family pleaser! It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do. Don’t forget to share your creations and tag us on social media! Happy cooking! ❤️
One-Pan Mexican Beef: 30-Minute Family Dinner!
A quick and flavorful one-pan Mexican beef dish that the whole family will love, ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and diced bell pepper; cook for an additional 3 minutes until the bell pepper softens.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and bring to a simmer.
- Cover the skillet and let the mixture cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and flavors meld.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, cover, and let it melt for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Tips
- For extra flavor, add jalapeu00f1os or hot sauce if you like it spicy.
- Serve with tortilla chips or over rice for a heartier meal.