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 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen); Salt and pepper, to taste; Shredded cheese, for topping; Chopped lettuce and cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: Rapid Bites

I love creating quick and delicious meals, and this Easy Ground Beef Taco Skillet has become a family favorite. It combines all the traditional taco flavors I adore into a one-pan dish, making cleanup a breeze. With simple ingredients that I often have on hand, I can whip this up in under 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners, I enjoy making it my own with extra toppings. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be reaching for seconds in no time!

Created by

Abigail Foster

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:43:14.001Z

When I first tried this Easy Ground Beef Taco Skillet, I was amazed at how effortless it was to prepare. I remember having some friends over and wanting to impress them with a tasty yet simple meal. This skillet dish allowed me to have more time with my guests while still serving a hearty dinner.

One tip I found invaluable was to sprinkle some fresh cilantro and lime juice over the top just before serving. It adds a burst of freshness that elevates the flavors and makes the dish feel even more special. It’s perfect for a casual get-together or a busy weeknight.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
One-pan convenience that saves time and effort
Bursting with vibrant taco flavors everyone enjoys
Customizable with your favorite toppings or ingredients

The Benefits of a One-Pan Meal

One-pan meals like this Easy Ground Beef Taco Skillet not only save time but also reduce the amount of cleanup required, allowing you to enjoy your dinner without the stress of multiple pots and pans. Cooking everything in a single skillet brings the flavors together, creating a cohesive and satisfying dish that’s both quick and environmentally friendly. Plus, you can relax knowing that less kitchenware means less mess to deal with after a busy day.

This method also allows for even cooking and flavor development, especially with ingredients like ground beef and vegetables. As they mingle in the skillet, you'll notice how the juices from the beef combine with the vegetables and seasonings, creating a richly flavored sauce that adheres perfectly to the meat and adds depth to every bite.

Ingredient Insight

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role. For instance, using fresh bell peppers not only adds vibrant color but also contributes natural sweetness and crunch. If you're in a hurry or don't have fresh peppers on hand, frozen diced peppers can easily substitute without sacrificing too much flavor or texture. Similarly, swapping canned diced tomatoes for fresh is a quick shortcut that can save you preparation time while still providing acidity and moisture to the dish.

The taco seasoning is the flavor powerhouse of this skillet. It’s worth looking for a seasoning blend without additives, or you can create your own using cumin, chili powder, and paprika. This allows you to adjust spiciness to your taste while ensuring the mix is free from unwanted preservatives. I often customize the spice level depending on who’s joining us for dinner, making it versatile for all palates.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet taco seasoning
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Shredded cheese, for topping
Chopped lettuce and cilantro, for garnish

Feel free to add any of your favorite ingredients or toppings to personalize this dish!

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.

Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

Add Seasoning

Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, and corn. Mix until everything is well combined, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing flavors to mingle. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Top with shredded cheese, lettuce, and cilantro. Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious and easy meal!

This dish is great served with tortillas or over rice. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating the ground beef in taco seasoning for a bit before cooking. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This dish is perfect for meal prepping. After cooking, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to keep the meat moist, then microwave or heat over medium on the stovetop until warmed through. I've found that adding a little fresh lime juice right before serving brightens up the flavors wonderfully.

If you wish to freeze the taco skillet, portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, simply let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it up in the skillet or microwave for a quick meal that tastes just as good as when it was first made.

Serving Suggestions

This taco skillet is incredibly customizable when it comes to serving options. I love serving it over a bed of rice or alongside tortilla chips for a crunchy twist. You could also use it as a filling for tacos or burritos, with additional toppings like sour cream, avocado, or salsa to enhance the experience. Adding freshly diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce can take the heat and flavor to another level if you enjoy spicy food.

For a unique touch, consider incorporating other toppings like diced avocado, pickled onions, or even jalapeño slices for an extra punch. Not only does this add visual appeal, but it also allows everyone to customize their servings according to personal preference. I often set up a little taco bar with all the toppings so everyone can enjoy this dish exactly how they like it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well in this recipe.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the skillet or microwave.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this taco skillet?

This dish pairs well with tortillas, rice, or a side salad for a complete meal.