Easy Ground Beef Taco Skillet

Name: Easy Ground Beef Taco Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade); 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 cup corn (frozen or canned); 1 bell pepper, diced; Salt and pepper to taste; Shredded cheese (for topping); Tortilla chips or taco shells (for serving)

Highlighted under: Simple Meal Magic

I love how simple yet satisfying this Easy Ground Beef Taco Skillet is. It's a one-pan dish that brings together all the vibrant flavors of a classic taco in just 30 minutes. The juicy ground beef, zesty spices, and fresh veggies create a delicious meal that feels homemade without the fuss. Plus, it's a perfect weeknight dinner choice for busy families. I often add my favorite toppings to customize each serving, making it a hit around the dinner table.

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-24T08:46:05.090Z

When I first made this Easy Ground Beef Taco Skillet, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. The key is in the seasoning; a blend of chili powder, cumin, and paprika offers that authentic taco flavor. I love to add a splash of lime juice at the end to elevate the dish and brighten the flavors, which has become a game-changer in my kitchen.

This skillet dish is perfect for any night of the week. You can throw in your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or corn, to make it even heartier. I've even prepared it in advance and stored it in the fridge, where all the flavors meld together beautifully. It’s a versatile recipe that keeps on giving!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation in just one pan
Customizable with your favorite toppings and veggies
Delicious taco flavors that everyone will enjoy

Perfectly Cooked Beef

The foundation of this Easy Ground Beef Taco Skillet is the ground beef, which provides rich flavor and texture. Using a medium heat allows the beef to brown evenly without burning, which typically takes about 5 to 7 minutes. You want the beef to develop those nice brown bits in the pan, which contribute to the overall depth of flavor. Avoid overcrowding the skillet; if you have too much beef, cook it in batches.

It’s essential to break up the meat into small, uniform pieces while cooking. This ensures that each bite is tender and allows the seasoning to coat the beef evenly. A sturdy spatula or wooden spoon works best here; aim for fare-sized chunks to promote even cooking. Resist the urge to stir too frequently, as this can inhibit browning.

Vegetable Additions

Incorporating vegetables adds freshness and nutrition to your dish. The onion and bell pepper not only enhance the flavor but also provide a satisfying crunch. When sautéing them, aim for a softened texture, about 3 to 5 minutes, before adding the garlic. This method allows the natural sugars in the onion to caramelize slightly, enhancing the overall taste of your skillet.

Consider adding other vegetables like zucchini or black beans for extra fiber. If you opt for fresh tomatoes, make sure they're ripe and juicy to ensure your skillet is packed with flavor. Canned tomatoes are great for convenience; look for fire-roasted varieties for added smokiness.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this tasty dish:

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade)
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
1 bell pepper, diced
Salt and pepper to taste
Shredded cheese (for topping)
Tortilla chips or taco shells (for serving)

Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences!

Instructions

Let’s get cooking!

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Veggies

Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Season It Up

Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef mixture and stir in the diced tomatoes and corn. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Serve

Taste and adjust with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese and alongside tortilla chips or in taco shells.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding black beans or a splash of hot sauce. To make it lighter, swap ground beef for ground turkey or beef alternatives.

Customizing Your Dish

One of the best parts of this recipe is its versatility. You can experiment with various topping options such as avocado, sour cream, or salsa to suit your tastes. If you're hosting a taco night, set up a toppings bar so everyone can create their own customizable bowl—this keeps it fun and interactive!

For those wanting a vegetarian twist, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative. This maintains the dish's heartiness while accommodating different dietary preferences. Remember, adjust the cooking time if you're using lentils as they typically require longer to soften.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish reheats wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep. When reheating, use a skillet on medium heat to regain that delightful texture, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture and prevent sticking.

You can also freeze the skillet mixture for up to 3 months. To do this, allow the dish to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned earlier for a quick weeknight dinner.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works great as a lighter alternative.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture in advance and reheat when ready to serve.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

Some favorites include avocado, sour cream, salsa, and fresh cilantro.