Description
A quick and flavorful Taco Skillet recipe that combines lean ground beef, aromatic onions, garlic, and a zesty taco seasoning blend, simmered with pinto beans and salsa, then topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a hearty and satisfying meal ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
- 1 medium white or yellow onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Beans
- 1 ounce packet taco seasoning
- 15 ounce can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 15 ounce jar tomato salsa
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or cheddar Jack cheese
Instructions
- Heat Skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for browning the meat.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the heated skillet, breaking it up as it cooks. Once browned thoroughly, drain excess grease and return the beef to the skillet.
- Sauté Onion: Stir the diced onion into the beef and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring regularly until the onions become soft and translucent.
- Add Garlic and Seasoning: Mix in the minced garlic and taco seasoning, cooking and stirring continuously for 30 seconds to release their aromas.
- Add Beans and Salsa: Stir in the drained pinto beans and tomato salsa. Reduce the heat slightly and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Remove from Heat: Take the skillet off the heat source to prepare for the next step.
- Melt Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mixture in the skillet, then cover the skillet to let the cheese melt thoroughly before serving.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat for a healthier dish.
- Feel free to substitute pinto beans with black beans or kidney beans if preferred.
- Serve with toppings like sour cream, chopped cilantro, or sliced jalapeños for extra flavor.
- If you prefer spicier, add a pinch of crushed red pepper or hot sauce along with the taco seasoning.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or extra beans.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Skillet Meals
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican