This Easy Ground Beef Burrito Skillet is a one-pan wonder! With juicy beef, tasty beans, cheesy goodness, and zesty spices, it’s a meal that bursts with flavor.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish! For a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken. If you want a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or crumbled tofu. Both will soak up the taco seasoning flavors well.
Taco Seasoning: A packet makes it easy, but you can make your own using chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. This way, you control the spice level. A pinch of cayenne can add some heat if you like it spicy!
Beans: Pinto and black beans are classic here. If you’re out of one, kidney beans or chickpeas can work too. They add protein and texture, so feel free to mix and match!
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella create a melty topping. For a twist, try pepper jack for a kick or a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco for a more authentic taste.
Tortilla Chips: Instead of chips, you can use crushed tortilla wraps or even cornbread for a unique twist. They’ll still offer that beloved crunch!
How Do You Cook Ground Beef Just Right?
Cooking ground beef perfectly is essential for a great dish. Here’s how to achieve a juicy and flavorful texture:
- Start with a hot skillet to help brown the beef evenly. This develops a nice flavor.
- Break the meat into small pieces while cooking. This helps it brown instead of steam.
- Drain excess fat if the beef is too greasy. Otherwise, this can make your dish greasy.
- For a well-seasoned blend, let the meat absorb the taco seasoning by stirring it in well and cooking for an extra minute.
Easy Ground Beef Burrito Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (about 1 oz) taco seasoning mix
- 1 cup cooked rice (optional)
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel), drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 6-8 corn or flour tortilla chips or torn tortillas
- Sour cream for topping
- Fresh diced tomatoes for topping
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious burrito skillet takes about 10 minutes of prep time and roughly 20 minutes to cook. So you can have a hearty meal on the table in about 30 minutes—perfect for busy evenings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook everything together until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess grease, be sure to drain it before moving to the next step.
2. Add the Flavor:
Once the beef is browned, stir in the taco seasoning mix. Cook it for another minute until the mixture is aromatic and well combined.
3. Mix in the Beans and Tomatoes:
Next, add the pinto beans, black beans, and the diced tomatoes (don’t forget to drain them first!). If you’re using rice, add that now too. Mix everything together well and let it heat through for about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the Tortilla Chips:
Lower the heat to medium-low. Scatter the tortilla chips or torn pieces over the beef and bean mixture evenly. This will give it a nice crunch!
5. Top with Cheese:
Now it’s time for the cheese! Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top of the skillet. The more cheese, the better!
6. Melt the Cheese:
Cover the skillet with a lid or some foil and let it cook for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once the cheese is melted, remove the skillet from heat. Top it with dollops of sour cream, fresh diced tomatoes, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a fresh touch.
8. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve the burrito skillet hot straight from the skillet, and feel free to include guacamole or salsa on the side for an extra treat!
Enjoy this hearty, cheesy, and flavorful burrito skillet that’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners!
FAQ for Easy Ground Beef Burrito Skillet
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef. It will work just as well, and you might find it a bit lighter. Just remember to adjust cooking time slightly if needed, as turkey might cook a bit faster.
How Do I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
If you want to make this skillet vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and replace it with cooked lentils, black beans, or a meat substitute like crumbled tofu or tempeh. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers and zucchini for extra flavor and nutrients!
What Can I Use Instead of Tortilla Chips?
If you don’t have tortilla chips on hand, you can use crushed tortilla wraps or even broken taco shells for that desired crunch. Alternatively, try layering with corn tortillas instead of chips for a different texture!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
For any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist. Enjoy it again for a quick meal!
