Introduction
This flavorful taco skillet dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Packed with protein and topped with delicious fresh ingredients, it’s a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on its own or served over a bed of cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
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
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
Enjoy this delicious taco skillet hot, garnished with fresh toppings to add an extra burst of flavor to your meal.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Once cooked, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside, keeping it warm. If there’s excessive oil, drain it, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the skillet.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, for approximately 2 minutes until they begin to soften.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Return the browned ground beef to the skillet. Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and pour in the water. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until most of the liquid has evaporated.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Sour Cream
Stir in 1 cup of the shredded Mexican blend cheese and the sour cream until the mixture is well blended and creamy.
Step 5: Top with Remaining Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese over the top. Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the cheese to melt.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the cheese has melted, garnish the dish with diced tomato, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, and sliced black olives, if using. Serve the taco skillet hot, either on its own or over a bed of cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Notes
Note 1:
For additional flavor, consider sautéing garlic along with the onion and bell pepper.
Note 2:
You can customize this dish by adding or substituting other vegetables such as corn or zucchini.
Note 3:
Feel free to adjust the amount of taco seasoning according to your taste preferences.
Note 4:
This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it a convenient option for busy days.
Cook techniques
Browning Ground Beef
To achieve a rich flavor and color for your taco dish, brown the lean ground beef over medium-high heat. This process involves cooking the meat until it turns a deep brown, which enhances its taste through the Maillard reaction.
Sautéing Vegetables
Sauté the chopped onion and green bell pepper in the remaining fat from the ground beef. Cook them for a couple of minutes until they soften. This step builds depth of flavor in your dish.
Simmering
After combining the meat, taco seasoning, and water, bring your mixture to a boil. Then, reduce the heat and let it simmer. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken as liquid evaporates.
Creating Creaminess
Stir in shredded Mexican blend cheese and sour cream to create a creamy, flavorful base. This technique not only adds richness but also binds the ingredients together.
Garnishing
After removing the skillet from heat, sprinkle additional cheese on top. Garnish with diced tomato, avocado, chopped cilantro, and black olives if desired, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute lean ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option.
What if I don’t have taco seasoning?
You can make your own taco seasoning using a blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like corn, zucchini, or mushrooms to increase nutrition and flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this taco skillet holds up well in the fridge and can be reheated throughout the week for quick meals.
What can I serve with the taco skillet?
This dish is delicious served alone, on a bed of cauliflower rice, or accompanied by tortillas, chips, or a fresh salad.
Conclusion
This delicious taco skillet combines lean ground beef with savory vegetables and rich cheese for a satisfying meal. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights. The addition of fresh toppings like tomato, avocado, and cilantro elevates the dish, making it not only flavorful but visually appealing as well. Serve it alone or over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option that everyone will enjoy.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Taco Salad
Layer seasoned ground beef over mixed greens and top with cheese, tomatoes, avocado, and a drizzle of ranch dressing.
Beef Tacos
Use the same seasoned beef mixture to fill taco shells, adding fresh toppings like lettuce, cheese, and salsa for a classic taco night.
Cheesy Beef Quesadillas
Spread the beef and cheese mixture between tortillas and grill until crispy. Serve with sour cream and guacamole for dipping.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Fill halved bell peppers with the beef mixture, top with cheese, and bake until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
Beef Enchiladas
Roll the seasoned beef in tortillas, top with enchilada sauce and cheese, and bake until heated through and the cheese is melted.
