Easy Beef Taco Skillet Recipe

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When it comes to satisfying our cravings for Mexican flavors, nothing beats the classic appeal of beef tacos. They are a perfect combination of savory beef, spices, and a medley of fresh toppings. If you’re looking for a quick and versatile meal that can be enjoyed as a main course or a hearty appetizer, then this 30-minute beef taco skillet recipe is just what you need. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, you can create a culinary masterpiece that will impress your family and friends. So, let’s dive into the delightful world of this easy-to-make dish that offers endless possibilities.

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Easy Beef Taco Skillet

To begin, gather the ingredients needed for the main course version of this easy beef taco skillet. You’ll need shredded lettuce, salsa, chopped tomatoes, extra cheese, and warm corn taco shells or large lettuce leaves for wrapping. Once you have everything ready, it’s time to get cooking.

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Once the beef is cooked through, add your preferred taco seasoning and stir it in, allowing the flavors to meld for a few minutes. Next, layer on the shredded lettuce, spoonfuls of salsa, and chopped tomatoes to add a refreshing crunch and tangy flavor to the dish. Finish it off with a generous sprinkle of extra cheese, allowing it to melt and create a gooey delight.

Now, it’s time to decide how you want to enjoy this mouthwatering creation. If you prefer a traditional approach, warm up some corn taco shells and fill them with the flavorful beef mixture. The combination of the warm, crispy shells with the tender beef and toppings creates a delightful symphony of textures and tastes. Alternatively, you can opt for a lighter low-carb twist by using large lettuce leaves as wraps, adding a refreshing crispness to every bite. No matter how you choose to serve it, your taste buds are in for a treat.

Hearty Appetizer Indulgence

If you’re hosting a gathering or simply want to enjoy this dish as a satisfying appetizer, the easy beef taco skillet can easily be transformed into a crowd-pleasing option. Here’s how to do it:

Instead of taco shells or lettuce wraps, you’ll want to serve the beef mixture with gluten-free tortilla chips. These crunchy chips provide the perfect vehicle for scooping up the flavorful goodness. Arrange a platter of tortilla chips and spoon the beef mixture generously over them. Now, it’s time to elevate the visual appeal and taste of this appetizer. Top the dish with diced tomatoes, adding a burst of freshness, and sprinkle some sliced green onions for a mild, zesty kick. For a creamy touch, slice up some ripe avocado and place it generously over the chips. Finally, finish it off with an extra sprinkle of cheese, allowing it to melt slightly over the warm beef.

When serving the beef taco skillet as an appetizer, timing is crucial. Prepare all the toppings and have them ready to go, then add them just before serving. This way, the chips stay crisp, the toppings remain vibrant, and the cheese retains its irresistible melt.

With its incredible versatility and ease of preparation, the 30-minute beef taco skillet is a culinary masterpiece that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you opt for the main course version with warm taco shells or the hearty appetizer option with gluten-free tortilla chips, the combination of savory beef, spices, and fresh toppings is sure to leave your taste buds craving more. So, gather your ingredients, heat up the skillet, and embark on a delicious journey that will please both your palate and your guests.

Easy Beef Taco Skillet Recipe

Recipe by Easy Clean RecipesCourse: EntreeCuisine: MexicanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

15

minutes

Taco Seasoning

• 
  2 T. chili powder

• 1 T. ground cumin

• 1 t. ground coriander

• 2 t. garlic powder

• 1 t. smoked paprika

• 1 ½ t. fine sea salt

• 1 t. ground black pepper

• ½ t. ground white pepper

• ¼ – ½ t. cayenne pepper (optional)

• For the beef taco mixture:

• 1 T. extra virgin olive oil

• ½ medium white onion, diced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• Sea salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1¼ lbs. ground beef (80% lean)

• 2 T. taco seasoning

• 1 10-oz. can fire-roasted tomatoes with green chilis, drained

• 4 oz. shredded Mexican-blend cheese (+ extra for serving or topping)

• Optional, to Serve:

• Taco shells or lettuce wraps, shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, salsa, sour cream, and/or extra cheese

Directions

• Prepare the taco seasoning by combining all ingredients in a bowl. Stir to combine and transfer to an airtight container. Set aside. 
• Add olive oil to a large skillet set over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic and season with salt and black pepper, to taste. Stir to combine and sauté, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and develops some color, approximately 4-5 minutes.
• Add beef to skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned, approximately 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat and carefully drain excess fat from skillet.
• Add taco seasoning and fire-roasted tomatoes and green chilis and stir to combine. Cook, stirring frequently, until tomatoes are heated through and the beef mixture is thoroughly coated in the taco seasoning, approximately 2-3 minutes. Taste, and add additional taco seasoning, if desired.
• Remove from heat and top with shredded cheese. Cover for 1-2 minutes or until cheese is completely melted. Serve immediately with desired accompaniments. Enjoy!  

Notes

• Remaining taco seasoning can be stored in an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid for several months.

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