Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner recipe, this hearty skillet dish featuring ground beef, black beans, and melted cheese is sure to satisfy. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining guests. The combination of spices and fresh ingredients elevates this dish, making it a crowd-pleaser among family and friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound lean ground beef
½ yellow onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon taco seasoning
1 tablespoon ground cumin
¾ teaspoon kosher salt
15 ounces salsa (1 jar)
15 ounces black beans, drained and rinsed (1 can)
1 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 cup freshly shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
1 jalapeño pepper, sliced (optional)
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
This delicious one-skillet meal is not only easy to make but also offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The melty, cheesy topping, combined with the seasoned beef and vegetables, creates a comforting dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy your cooking!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef and Onion
In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion, breaking apart the meat with a spoon, until the beef is cooked through.
Step 2: Add the Red Bell Pepper
Add the chopped red bell pepper and cook until it begins to soften, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 3: Stir in Garlic and Spices
Stir in the minced garlic, taco seasoning, ground cumin, and kosher salt; cook until fragrant, approximately 1 minute.
Step 4: Incorporate Salsa and Beans
Mix in the salsa, drained black beans, and half of both cheeses.
Step 5: Top with Remaining Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
Step 6: Melt the Cheese
Reduce the heat to medium, cover the skillet, and cook until the cheese has melted, about 2 minutes.
Step 7: Garnish
Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and sliced jalapeño pepper, if desired.
Step 8: Serve
Serve immediately.
Notes
Note 1: Meat Preparation
Ensure the ground beef is lean to minimize excess grease in the dish.
Note 2: Cheese Variations
Feel free to use different types of cheese based on your preference, as long as the total amount remains the same.
Note 3: Spice Adjustment
Adjust the amount of taco seasoning and jalapeño pepper based on your spice tolerance.
Note 4: Adding Vegetables
You can add additional vegetables such as corn or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a cooking method that uses a small amount of oil in a pan over medium-high heat. In this recipe, it is used to cook the ground beef and onions, allowing them to brown and develop flavor.
Mixing
The mixing technique involves combining ingredients to ensure even distribution of flavors. Here, the ground beef mixture is combined with salsa and black beans, along with half of the cheese, to create a cohesive filling.
Melting
Melting is the process of heating cheese until it transforms from solid to liquid. This technique is used to melt the cheese throughout the dish, providing a creamy texture and rich flavor.
Garnishing
Garnishing is the final decorating step in food preparation. In this recipe, fresh cilantro and sliced jalapeño are used as garnishes, enhancing the dish’s visual appeal and flavor profile.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative if preferred.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with rice, tortilla chips, or a fresh green salad.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, you can include additional jalapeños, use a spicier salsa, or sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving and add the cheese to melt just before serving.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes, you can omit the ground beef and use additional beans, lentils, or vegetables like zucchini and corn as a substitute.
Conclusion
This hearty beef and black bean dish is a simple and satisfying meal, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With vibrant flavors from fresh vegetables, spices, and melted cheese, it’s bound to please everyone at the table. The option to garnish with cilantro and jalapeño adds a fresh twist that enhances the overall taste. Enjoy this versatile recipe that can easily be adapted to suit your family’s preferences.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Taco Stuffed Peppers
Use your beef mixture to fill halved bell peppers, then bake until the peppers are tender. Top with cheese and serve with a dollop of sour cream.
Beef and Black Bean Quesadillas
Spread the mixture between flour tortillas, add cheese, and cook on a skillet until crispy. Cut into wedges and serve with salsa.
Layered Taco Dip
In a dish, layer the beef mixture, refried beans, sour cream, cheese, and toppings for a delicious party dip. Serve with tortilla chips.
Burrito Bowls
Serve the beef and bean mixture over a bed of rice or quinoa. Top with avocado, salsa, and fresh cilantro for a filling meal.
Taco Salad
Create a salad using lettuce as a base and top with the beef mixture, cheese, black beans, corn, and your favorite salad dressing for a healthier twist.
Cheesy Beef Nachos
Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet, top with the beef mixture, cheese, and jalapeños, then bake until cheese is bubbly. Serve with guacamole and salsa.
Chili Con Carne
Transform your beef mixture into a chili by adding diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and chili powder. Simmer and serve with cornbread.
