Introduction
If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare, this taco skillet is the perfect solution. Loaded with lean ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy cheese mixture, it’s a dish that delivers the authentic tastes of tacos in a comforting skillet format. Ideal for a weeknight dinner, this recipe is both satisfying and customizable, allowing you to adjust toppings according to your preferences.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1½ to 2½ pounds lean ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
2 to 3 tablespoons taco seasoning
1 cup water
2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided
1 cup sour cream
1 tomato, diced
1 avocado, diced
2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
Sliced black olives (optional)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
45 minutes
Yield
Serves 4 to 6
This delicious taco skillet is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy the simplicity of cooking while indulging in bold flavors and creamy textures that everyone will love.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, brown 1½ to 2½ pounds of lean ground beef over medium-high heat. Once the beef is fully cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside to keep warm. If there is excessive oil in the skillet, drain all but 1 tablespoon.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add 1 chopped onion and 1 chopped green bell pepper (seeded) to the same skillet. Cook the vegetables, stirring frequently, over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes until they start to soften.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Return the browned ground beef to the skillet. Sprinkle in 2 to 3 tablespoons of taco seasoning and pour in 1 cup of water. Stir well to combine the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow it to simmer for approximately 20 minutes, or until most of the liquid has evaporated.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Sour Cream
Stir in 1 cup of shredded Mexican blend cheese and 1 cup of sour cream until the mixture is well blended and creamy.
Step 5: Melt Remaining Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese over the top of the mixture. Remove the skillet from heat and allow the cheese to melt.
Step 6: Garnish the Dish
Once the cheese has melted, garnish the dish with diced tomato, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, and sliced black olives if desired.
Step 7: Serve
Serve the taco skillet hot, either on its own or over a bed of cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Notes
Ground Beef
Use lean ground beef for a healthier option, but you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken if preferred.
Taco Seasoning
Feel free to adjust the amount of taco seasoning based on your spice preference or use homemade taco seasoning for a personalized flavor.
Cheese Variations
You can use a different cheese blend like cheddar or Monterey Jack if you do not have Mexican blend cheese.
Vegetable Additions
Customize with additional vegetables such as corn or jalapeños for added flavor and texture.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.
Cook techniques
Browning Ground Beef
Browning ground beef is the first step in creating depth of flavor. It involves cooking the beef over medium-high heat until it is no longer pink, which helps to develop a nice crust and rich taste.
Sautéing Vegetables
Sautéing involves cooking chopped onion and bell pepper in a skillet with a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. This method helps to soften the vegetables and release their flavors, which enhances the overall dish.
Simmering
Simmering is the process of cooking a mixture at a gentle boil. In this recipe, it helps to combine the flavors of the beef, taco seasoning, and water, allowing the liquid to reduce and intensify the taste.
Creating a Creamy Mixture
Stirring in shredded cheese and sour cream over low heat allows these ingredients to melt together, creating a rich and creamy texture that coats the beef and vegetables.
Garnishing
Garnishing adds freshness and visual appeal to the dish. Adding diced tomato, avocado, cilantro, and black olives enhances flavor and texture, making the presentation more appetizing.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a different flavor or to cater to dietary preferences.
What can I use instead of taco seasoning?
You can create your own taco seasoning with spices such as chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and oregano if you prefer a homemade blend.
Is it possible to make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and vegetable mixture ahead of time. Just reheat it before serving and add the cheese and garnishes.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or beans, and keep the rest of the ingredients the same.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Conclusion
This taco skillet recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a hearty meal packed with flavor. The combination of ground beef, cheese, and fresh toppings makes it a delightful option for any weeknight dinner. Whether served on its own or over a low-carb base, this dish is sure to please the palate.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetarian Taco Skillet
Substitute the ground beef with black beans or lentils for a delicious vegetarian version, maintaining the same seasonings and toppings.
Taco Stuffed Peppers
Use the same filling mixture to stuff halved bell peppers, top with cheese, and bake until the peppers are tender.
Loaded Taco Nachos
Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet, top with the beef mixture and cheese, then bake until melted. Finish with the fresh toppings for a perfect appetizer.
Taco Salad Bowl
Serve the beef mixture over a bed of lettuce, topped with cheese, sour cream, fresh tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro for a refreshing salad.
Taco Rice Casserole
Mix the cooked taco mixture with cooked rice, layer in a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly for a comforting casserole.
