Name: Beef Taco Skillet Meal
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon avocado oil or other cooking oil; 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey; 1 red bell pepper (diced); 1 orange or other color bell pepper (diced); 2 to 3 tablespoons taco seasoning or homemade equivalent; 1 can (14 oz pinto beans or black beans, drained and rinsed); 1/2 cup fresh or frozen corn; 1/3 cup taco sauce (enchilada, or tomato-based sauce); A few corn tortillas (torn or cut into pieces or triangles); 1 to 1 1/4 cups shredded Mexican-style cheese or preferred melting cheese; Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste); Optional toppings: sliced avocado

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If you crave a comforting, flavorful dinner that comes together in just one pan, this Beef Taco Skillet Meal is your go-to. Combining seasoned ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, hearty beans, and crispy corn tortillas all topped with melted cheese, it delivers a rich, satisfying Mexican-inspired feast.

Ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this easy skillet meal blends savory and fresh ingredients with a touch of spice, inviting you to customize toppings like avocado and lime for a perfect finishing touch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-pan convenience means minimal cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
Hearty mix of beef, beans, and veggies provides a balanced, nutritious dinner option.
Customizable toppings let you tailor the flavor and texture every time.
Quick to prepare yet full of bold, authentic taco flavors that satisfy every craving.

Ingredients

Avocado oil: One tablespoon to lightly brown the meat and sauté vegetables without overpowering flavors.
Ground beef (or turkey): Approximately 500 grams of lean meat providing protein and a rich base for the skillet.
Red bell pepper: One diced, adds sweet crunch and vibrant color to brighten the dish.
Orange bell pepper: One diced, complements the red pepper with a mild sweetness and appealing hue.
Taco seasoning: Two to three tablespoons, either store-bought or homemade, to infuse classic Mexican spices.
Pinto or black beans: One drained and rinsed can (400–425 grams), adding fiber and a creamy texture.
Corn kernels: About half a cup of fresh or frozen corn, delivering subtle sweetness and pop.
Taco sauce: One-third cup to coat all ingredients with tangy, tomato-based zest.
Corn tortillas: A few pieces, torn or cut, which bake crispy for delightful texture contrast.
Mexican-style shredded cheese: One to one and a quarter cups to melt over the dish, providing gooey richness.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste, enhancing and balancing the overall flavor profile.
Optional toppings: Sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, sour cream, chopped tomatoes, lime wedges, and scallions for fresh, zesty finishing touches.

Instructions

Preheat and Brown Meat: Heat a cast-iron or oven-safe skillet over medium heat and add avocado oil. Crumble in the ground beef or turkey and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and nearly cooked through. This step locks in meat juices and creates a flavorful base.
Add Peppers and Seasoning: Stir in the diced red and orange bell peppers, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until starting to soften but still vibrant. Sprinkle the taco seasoning along with salt and pepper, stirring to coat all ingredients evenly. This builds depth and layers of authentic taco flavor.
Mix Beans, Corn, and Sauce: Add the drained beans, corn kernels, and taco sauce to the skillet. Mix thoroughly, allowing the sauce to evenly coat the meat and vegetables. Warm everything together for 1-2 minutes to meld flavors and heat through.
Add Tortillas and Cheese Layer: Turn off the heat and tear or cut corn tortillas into pieces. Gently fold them into the skillet mixture, letting some pieces stick out to crisp while baking. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese, stirring lightly to distribute it well throughout the skillet.
Top and Bake: Evenly sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 220 °C (425 °F) and bake for about 15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and edges become golden and crisp. The baking step melds ingredients and adds delightful texture.
Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve hot with your choice of toppings such as sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, chopped tomatoes, and lime wedges for a bright, fresh contrast to the rich skillet.

You Must Know

This dish is highly versatile: swap ground beef with turkey or a plant-based alternative for different dietary needs.
Adjust the spice levels easily by modifying the taco seasoning or adding heat with chili powder or cayenne.
Corn tortillas crisp wonderfully in the oven, but flour tortillas can be used if preferred.
For dairy-free versions, omit cheese or use vegan cheese — the flavorful sauce and spices shine without it.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain tortilla crispness and melted cheese texture.

Serving Suggestions

This skillet pairs well with a simple green salad or Mexican rice for a complete meal. Serve with fresh lime wedges and a side of pickled jalapeños to elevate the flavor experience even further.

Professional Tips

Use a cast-iron skillet for ideal heat distribution and the perfect crispy edges on tortillas.
Allow the dish to rest a few minutes after baking to let flavors meld and cheese set slightly for easier serving.
Customize the veggies with additions like diced onions or jalapeños depending on your taste preferences.
Preparing homemade taco seasoning lets you control salt and spice levels for your family’s preference.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?: Yes, substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth or salsa for moisture, keeping beans and veggies for protein and texture.
What if I don’t have taco seasoning?: You can use a mix of chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of oregano and cayenne to create your own taco spice blend.
Can I prepare this skillet ahead of time?: Yes, assemble all ingredients in the skillet without baking, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh right before serving for best results.
Are corn tortillas mandatory?: Not at all, flour tortillas work equally well. Just cut and layer them similarly—texture will be softer but still delicious.
How spicy is this dish?: It has a mild to moderate spice level based on the seasoning used, which you can adjust to suit your preference by adding more or less chili powder or cayenne.
Can I freeze leftovers?: While possible, freezing may alter the texture of the tortilla and cheese. For best quality, refrigerate and consume within a few days.
What cheese works best for melting?: Mexican-style cheeses like a mild cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend melt beautifully, creating gooey layers that complement the dish.