This Ground Beef Burrito Skillet is a one-pan wonder! It’s packed with hearty ground beef, colorful veggies, and tasty spices all mixed together with rice or beans.
The best part? It’s super easy to make! Just throw everything in the skillet and let it cook. Perfect for busy nights when you need a satisfying meal without a ton of dishes to wash!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is perfect for this dish. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a leaner option. I’ve used both and they turn out great, just be mindful of the cooking time as they may dry out faster.
Black Beans: Canned black beans are convenient, but if you’re trying to cut back on sodium, you can use dried beans instead. Just be sure to soak and cook them beforehand. White beans or kidney beans also work if you’re in a pinch!
Corn: You can use either canned or frozen corn. If using frozen, let it thaw slightly before adding. Alternatively, you could use fresh corn off the cob for a sweeter touch—perfect during summer!
Taco Seasoning: If you’re out of store-bought taco seasoning, a homemade mix of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika can do the trick. I often do this to control levels of spice and salt.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but a Mexican blend adds a nice flavor mix. If you’re dairy-free, consider using a plant-based cheese. I’ve tried that too, and it still tastes fantastic!
How Can You Ensure the Beef is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking the beef might seem simple, but it’s crucial to get it just right. You’ll want it browned and crumbly, not soggy. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a medium heat; too high will burn the surface before it’s cooked through.
- Break the beef apart with a spatula as it cooks to get nice even browning.
- Cook until it’s no longer pink and juices run clear, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Remember to drain any excess fat to prevent a greasy dish.
Trust me, following these steps will ensure a delicious beef base for your skillet!
How to Make Ground Beef Burrito Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skillet:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup salsa
- 4 large flour tortillas, cut into strips
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Toppings:
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes to make, with about 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. You’ll have a hearty, warm meal ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by placing a large skillet on the stove over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet and use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Cook until it’s fully browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
2. Add the Flavor:
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the browned beef and pour in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and salsa. Stir everything together well to combine. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors can meld together nicely.
3. Coat with Tortillas:
Now, gently stir in the strips of flour tortillas. Make sure all the tortilla pieces are well-coated with the beef and vegetable mixture. This will give your skillet a nice burrito-like texture.
4. Melt the Cheese:
Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the mixture in the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook on low heat for another 5 minutes. This will give the cheese time to melt and get all gooey and delicious!
5. Add the Finishing Touches:
Once the cheese is melted, remove the skillet from heat. Top your dish with dollops of sour cream and sprinkle over the chopped fresh cilantro for that extra flavor and color.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Ground Beef Burrito Skillet is ready! Serve it hot directly from the skillet or transfer it to bowls for easier serving. Dive in and enjoy this tasty meal!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a healthier or vegetarian option. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly, so always ensure the meat is fully cooked to safe temperatures.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you like heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the skillet while cooking. You can also use spicy taco seasoning or top the finished dish with sliced fresh chili peppers for an extra kick!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep it from drying out.
Can I Prepare This Skillet Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the ingredients (chopping vegetables, draining beans, etc.) a day in advance and store them in the fridge. However, it’s best to cook the beef and assemble the skillet just before serving for optimal texture and freshness.
