Mexican Ground Beef Skillet: A Simple & Delicious Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick, hearty meal that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico to your table, this Mexican Ground Beef Skillet: A Simple & Delicious Recipe is just what you need! I love this recipe because it’s not only easy to whip up on busy weeknights, but it also satisfies the whole family. The combination of spices, beans, and vegetables makes for a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor.

This skillet meal comes together in under an hour and is perfect for those evenings when you want something delicious without spending all your time in the kitchen. Whether it’s just you or a gathering of friends and family, this dish will surely be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes under an hour from start to finish, making it ideal for those busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze!
• Family-Friendly: Packed with flavors that appeal to everyone, even picky eaters will enjoy this dish.
• Customizable: Feel free to switch out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.
• Hearty and Filling: It’s loaded with protein and fiber, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Mexican Ground Beef Skillet. These are items you might already have in your pantry or can easily find at your local grocery store!

For the Skillet

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
• 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies, undrained

For the Spices

• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Finishing Touches

• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, for garnish

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily tweak it based on your taste or what you have available. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add jalapeños or use hot chili powder.
• Serve differently: Try serving over rice or with tortilla chips for a fun twist!

How to Make Mexican Ground Beef Skillet: A Simple & Delicious Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by finely chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. It’s important to measure out all your spices now so that everything is ready when needed. Rinsing and draining the black beans and corn ensures they don’t add extra liquid to our skillet.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cooking it until browned (about 8-10 minutes) creates that savory base we crave. Remove the beef using a slotted spoon while leaving some rendered fat in the pan. This fat will add flavor to our vegetables!

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Reduce the heat to medium and toss in the chopped onion. Cooking until softened (about 5 minutes) allows their natural sweetness to come out. After that, add in minced garlic and cook for another minute. This step fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma!

Step 4: Add Spices and Other Ingredients

Stir in chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cooking these spices briefly will enhance their flavors. Now add in diced tomatoes (with their juice), black beans, corn, and green chilies along with their liquid—this will create a rich sauce! Pour in beef broth while scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the pan.

Step 5: Simmer and Serve

Return the browned beef back into your skillet mixture. Bring everything to a simmer then reduce heat to low. Covering it allows flavors to meld beautifully as it cooks for about 15-20 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir occasionally! Before serving, give it a taste; adjust seasoning if needed—maybe a little more salt or even a squeeze of lime juice! Finish with fresh cilantro sprinkled on top.

Enjoy every bite of this flavorful Mexican Ground Beef Skillet! It’s sure to become a staple in your home just like it has in mine!

Pro Tips for Making Mexican Ground Beef Skillet: A Simple & Delicious Recipe

Cooking this flavorful dish can be even more enjoyable with a few handy tips! Here are some suggestions to ensure your skillet meal turns out perfectly every time.

• Prep Ahead: Chop your vegetables and measure out spices in advance. This saves time during cooking and helps you focus on the fun part—sautéing and savoring the aromas!
• Choose Quality Ground Beef: Opt for an 80/20 blend for the best flavor and juiciness. The fat content keeps the meat moist, enhancing the overall richness of your dish.
• Don’t Rush the Browning: Allow the ground beef to brown fully before removing it from the skillet. This step adds a depth of flavor through caramelization, which makes your dish even tastier.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning gradually while cooking. Everyone’s palate is different, so tasting allows you to customize the spice levels just right for you and your family!
• Let It Simmer: After combining all ingredients, let them simmer together. This helps meld all those vibrant flavors beautifully, resulting in a more cohesive and delicious meal.

How to Serve Mexican Ground Beef Skillet: A Simple & Delicious Recipe

Presentation can elevate your meal experience! Consider these ideas to serve your Mexican Ground Beef Skillet in style.

Garnishes

• Chopped Avocado: Add creamy avocado slices on top for a rich texture that complements the spices.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop adds a cool contrast to the heat of the dish.
• Lime Wedges: Squeezing fresh lime juice over each serving brightens flavors and adds zesty freshness.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with garlic and cilantro makes a perfect base that absorbs all those delightful flavors from the skillet.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole not only pairs wonderfully but also provides an extra layer of flavor and richness alongside your main dish.
• Corn Tortillas: Warm, soft tortillas can be used for scooping up the beef mixture or served as wraps—perfect for making mini tacos!
• Simple Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette brings a refreshing crunch that balances out the hearty skillet meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create an inviting atmosphere around your dinner table. Enjoy this simple yet delicious Mexican Ground Beef Skillet with family or friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Mexican Ground Beef Skillet is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to keep your leftovers fresh and flavorful.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the skillet cool down, then portion it into freezer-safe containers.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I use turkey instead of beef for this Mexican Ground Beef Skillet?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that will work wonderfully in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed.

How can I spice up my Mexican Ground Beef Skillet?

If you’re looking for extra flavor, consider adding more spices like cayenne pepper or even diced jalapeños. You could also mix in some fresh lime juice before serving for a zesty kick!

Is this Mexican Ground Beef Skillet a good option for meal prep?

Yes! This Mexican Ground Beef Skillet is perfect for meal prep. It stores well and tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded together.

What sides pair well with this Mexican Ground Beef Skillet?

Consider serving it with warm tortillas, avocado slices, or a fresh salad on the side. Rice or quinoa also make excellent accompaniments!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Mexican Ground Beef Skillet. It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that brings friends and family together around the table. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings! Happy cooking!

---

Dinner