Mexican Ground Beef Skillet: A Simple & Delicious Recipe

If you’re looking for a meal that brings warmth and comfort to your table, look no further! This Mexican Ground Beef Skillet: A Simple & Delicious Recipe is not only packed with flavor but also comes together in under an hour. It’s one of my go-to recipes for busy weeknights when I want something hearty and satisfying without spending all evening in the kitchen. Plus, it’s great for family gatherings or casual get-togethers with friends—everyone loves a good skillet dish!

What makes this recipe special is how versatile it is; you can customize it to suit your family’s tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for something mild or want to kick up the heat, this dish delivers. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this delicious meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep and 35 minutes of cook time, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this skillet is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup—who doesn’t love that?
• Flavorful and Filling: The combination of spices and hearty ingredients creates a comforting dish that satisfies all appetites.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this ahead of time and reheat it for an easy meal any day of the week!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful Mexican Ground Beef Skillet. You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store, making this recipe both accessible and delicious.

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

Variations

One of the best things about this Mexican Ground Beef Skillet is its flexibility! You can easily swap ingredients or add extras to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
• Go vegetarian: Replace beef with lentils or quinoa for a hearty plant-based dish.

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. Measure out all the spices you’ll be using. Rinse and drain the black beans and corn while keeping the liquid from the diced green chilies. Having everything prepped makes cooking smooth and enjoyable!

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks until browned (about 8–10 minutes). The goal here is to get a nice sear on the meat which adds depth of flavor. Once browned, remove it from the pan using a slotted spoon but leave that tasty rendered fat behind!

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Reduce the heat to medium, then toss in your chopped onion. Cook until softened (around 5 minutes), stirring occasionally. The aroma will start filling your kitchen! Add in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant—this step really enhances the overall flavor of our dish.

Step 4: Spice It Up!

Next, stir in chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper (if you’re feeling adventurous), smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cooking these spices briefly helps release their essential oils, making everything taste even better! Add in those diced tomatoes along with black beans, corn, and green chilies—don’t forget to include that liquid! Pour in beef broth while scraping any flavorful bits off the bottom of the pan. Finally, return your browned beef back into the skillet.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Bring everything to a simmer then reduce heat to low. Cover your skillet and let it cook for about 15–20 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly. Remember to stir occasionally! When it’s almost done, taste it—this is where you can adjust seasoning like adding more salt or even a squeeze of lime juice for brightness. Finish off with chopped cilantro before serving.

Enjoy every bite of this warm and inviting Mexican Ground Beef Skillet—it’s sure to become one of your favorites too!

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

Cooking can be a joy, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your Mexican Ground Beef Skillet to new heights!

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh onions, garlic, and herbs not only enhance flavor but also add a brightness to your dish that canned or dried ingredients can’t replicate.

• Adjust spice levels – Everyone’s palate is different! Start with the recommended spices and adjust according to your taste. For those who love heat, adding more cayenne pepper or even diced jalapeños can bring the dish to life.

• Don’t rush the browning process – Taking the time to properly brown your ground beef develops a rich flavor base that makes this skillet truly scrumptious. Keep the heat at medium-high and stir occasionally for even cooking.

• Simmer for flavor – Allowing the dish to simmer helps meld all those delicious flavors together. The longer you let it simmer (up to 20 minutes), the richer the sauce will become.

• Customize with veggies – Feel free to add in any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini or bell peppers. They not only increase nutrition but also add vibrant color and texture.

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

Serving your Mexican Ground Beef Skillet is just as fun as cooking it! Here are some delightful ideas to present this hearty meal.

Garnishes

• Chopped Avocado – Creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of the skillet. It adds a rich texture that balances out the spices.
• Lime Wedges – A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving brightens up the entire dish, bringing all those flavors together.
• Sour Cream or Non-Dairy Alternative – A dollop of sour cream (or a plant-based alternative) adds creaminess and cools down any heat from the spices.

Side Dishes

• Spanish Rice – Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes, garlic, and spices complements the bold flavors of your skillet while soaking up any extra sauce.
• Guacamole and Tortilla Chips – A classic pairing! The fresh guacamole provides a creamy contrast, while crispy tortilla chips add crunch for delightful texture.
• Simple Green Salad – A refreshing salad with mixed greens dressed lightly in lime vinaigrette balances out the richness of the beef skillet.
• Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots create a colorful side that enhances both flavor and nutrition.

Enjoy your meal! This Mexican Ground Beef Skillet is not just easy; it’s also an opportunity for creativity when it comes to serving. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Mexican Ground Beef Skillet is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat your delicious creation for maximum freshness.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best flavor and texture.
• Allow the dish to cool before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing

• Let the skillet cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Make sure to label and date your containers for easy identification.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
• You can also use a microwave; cover loosely and heat in intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

If you have any questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

Can I make this Mexican Ground Beef Skillet ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for quick meals later.

What can I serve with Mexican Ground Beef Skillet?

This dish pairs well with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad. You can also top it with avocado, cheese alternatives, or sour cream substitutes for added flavor!

How long does leftover Mexican Ground Beef Skillet last?

Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you freeze them, they will last for 2-3 months without losing flavor!

Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?

Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives work well too. Adjust cooking times accordingly for different proteins.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Mexican Ground Beef Skillet as much as I do! It’s such a special dish that brings warmth and flavor to any dinner table. Whether you’re feeding a family or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to please. Happy cooking! Don’t forget to share your experience; I’d love to hear how it turns out!