This Ground Beef Burrito Skillet is a tasty one-pan meal that’s quick to make! It’s packed with seasoned beef, beans, and rice, all mixed together for a cozy dinner.
Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that only dirties one pan? I like to top mine with cheese and a dollop of sour cream. Yum! It’s like a burrito without the wrapping fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein source. For a healthier option, lean turkey or chicken works well too. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
Black Beans: These add protein and fiber. If you don’t have black beans, you can substitute pinto beans or kidney beans. Canned beans are great; just make sure to rinse them to cut down on sodium.
Salsa: This ingredient adds flavor. You can use store-bought salsa or make your own. If you prefer a milder flavor, go for a tomato sauce or mild salsa instead.
Cheese: I recommend using a mix of cheddar and Mexican blend for a nice flavor combo. If you’re dairy-free, shredded vegan cheese can be a good substitute.
Cilantro: While cilantro brightens up the dish, it’s optional! If you’re not a fan, fresh parsley or green onions can also add a nice touch.
How Do I Ensure the Ground Beef is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef properly is key to a tasty dish. Start by using a large skillet over medium heat. Once heated, add a drizzle of olive oil first, then the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes until it’s fully browned. You want to see no pink in the meat!
- Don’t forget to drain excess fat; this keeps the dish from becoming greasy.
Keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally for even cooking, and your beef will be deliciously browned!
How to Make Ground Beef Burrito Skillet?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Skillet:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade)
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, totaling around 30 minutes. It’s a quick and easy dinner option that makes for a satisfying meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks. Let it cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until it’s nicely browned. If there’s any excess fat after cooking, you can drain it off.
2. Add the Taco Seasoning:
Next, sprinkle in the taco seasoning. Stir well to coat the beef and follow any instructions on the packet for cooking time. This adds all the delicious flavors!
3. Mix in the Good Stuff:
Now it’s time to add the black beans, corn, salsa, and cooked rice into the skillet. Give everything a good stir to combine it well. Let this mixture cook together for about 3 to 5 minutes so it heats through nicely.
4. Melt the Cheese:
Reduce the heat to low, and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the beef mixture. Cover the skillet and let it sit for about 3 to 4 minutes. This will give the cheese time to melt into gooey perfection!
5. Add Toppings:
Once the cheese is melted, uncover the skillet and add dollops of sour cream right on top. For a fresh touch, garnish with diced tomatoes and chopped cilantro if you like.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Ground Beef Burrito Skillet is ready to serve! Scoop it onto plates while it’s warm, and enjoy this delicious meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great substitute for beef and will work well in this recipe. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly until no longer pink, similar to the beef cooking instructions.
What Can I Use Instead of Taco Seasoning?
If you don’t have taco seasoning, you can make your own by mixing equal parts chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Adjust to taste or add in some cayenne pepper for a little heat!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave for a couple of minutes or warm it up in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water or extra salsa to keep it moist.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Skillet?
Definitely! Feel free to add in other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just chop them into small pieces and toss them in with the ground beef so they can cook down. This is a great way to boost the nutrition of the dish!
