Introduction
Are you looking for a quick and delicious meal that packs a punch of flavor? Look no further than this easy taco skillet recipe. With a combination of ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and gooey cheese, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Perfect for busy weeknights, it comes together in just a few steps and is great for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 lb ground beef
1 (1 oz) package taco seasoning mix
1 cup chunky salsa
1 cup water
1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
4 (6 inch) flour tortillas, sliced into 1-inch strips
1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
1/4 cup sliced green onions
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
This taco skillet is not only quick to prepare but also customizable to suit your tastes. Feel free to add in your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, jalapeños, or avocado, to make it your own. Enjoy this hearty, flavorful dish that everyone will love!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, brown 1 lb of ground beef over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes until it is no longer pink and is cooked through.
Step 2: Drain Grease and Add Seasonings
Drain any excess grease from the skillet. Stir in 1 (1 oz) package of taco seasoning mix, 1 cup of water, 1 cup of chunky salsa, 1 (15 oz) can of drained corn, and 1 (15 oz) can of rinsed and drained black beans.
Step 3: Thicken the Sauce
Cover the skillet and continue to cook over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 4: Incorporate Tortilla Strips
Add in 4 (6 inch) flour tortillas that have been sliced into 1-inch strips and stir to combine with the other ingredients.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Top the mixture with 1 cup of shredded Mexican blend cheese. Allow it to melt, then remove the skillet from heat.
Step 6: Garnish with Green Onions
Sprinkle 1/4 cup of sliced green onions on top before serving.
Step 7: Serve Immediately
Serve the dish immediately with your favorite toppings.
Notes
Storage Instructions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
Consider serving with sour cream, guacamole, or additional salsa for enhanced flavor.
Ingredient Variations
Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or use different types of beans or vegetables based on your preference.
Cook techniques
Brown Ground Beef
To properly brown ground beef, cook it in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir it frequently for even cooking and to break it into smaller pieces. Cook until it is no longer pink, which usually takes 8 to 10 minutes.
Drain Excess Grease
After browning the ground beef, it is important to drain the excess grease to avoid a greasy final dish. Carefully tilt the skillet over a sink, using a spoon to hold back the meat, and let the grease drain out.
Mixing Ingredients
Once the excess grease is removed, stir in the taco seasoning, water, salsa, corn, and black beans. Ensure that everything is well combined for a balanced flavor throughout the dish.
Thickening the Sauce
Cover the skillet while cooking the mixture over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes. This helps to meld the flavors together and allows the sauce to thicken.
Incorporating Tortilla Strips
Add the sliced tortilla strips directly into the mixture. Stir them in gently to ensure they absorb some of the sauce without breaking apart.
Melting Cheese
Top the skillet with shredded cheese and allow it to melt. Remove the skillet from heat as soon as the cheese is melted to avoid overcooking.
Final Touches
Finish the dish by adding sliced green onions on top for added flavor and a pop of color before serving.
FAQ
Can I use lean ground beef?
Yes, using lean ground beef will result in a lower-fat dish. Just ensure to drain any grease that may still accumulate during cooking.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives, and ensure to use vegetable broth or water instead of meat-based options.
How long can leftovers be stored?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or jalapeños to enhance the flavors and nutrition.
What toppings can I use?
Feel free to use toppings such as sour cream, avocado, cilantro, or additional salsa based on your preference.
Conclusion
This dish blends delicious flavors and textures, making it a perfect quick meal for any occasion. The combination of ground beef, tacos, salsa, corn, and black beans creates a satisfying and hearty dish. Topped with gooey Mexican blend cheese and fresh green onions, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Try adding diced bell peppers and jalapeños for an extra kick.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Consider substituting ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Incorporate sliced avocados and sour cream as toppings for added creaminess.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Serve over a bed of lettuce for a fresh and healthy taco salad variation.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Add some crispy tortilla chips for crunchiness and texture.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or cheddar, for varied flavors.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Top with fresh cilantro or diced tomatoes for a burst of freshness and color.
