This Ground Beef Burrito Skillet is a one-pan wonder! You get juicy beef, tasty beans, and colorful veggies all mixed together for a hearty meal.
It’s like a burrito but in a bowl – no wrapping needed! I love how quick it is to make. Just toss everything in the skillet, and dinner is ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein. You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Vegetarian crumbles or black lentils work for plant-based meals. I prefer 80/20 ground beef for its nice balance of flavor and moisture.
Black Beans: They add heartiness and protein. If you’re not a fan, try pinto beans or chickpeas. Canned beans are quick and easy and save on cooking time. Make sure to rinse them well to remove excess sodium.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: This gives your dish a nice kick. If you like it spicier, use fire-roasted tomatoes or a can of diced jalapeños. You can also substitute plain diced tomatoes and add seasoning to taste.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are classic here, but corn tortillas are a great gluten-free choice. Cut them into triangles or strips. I always prefer freshly made tortillas when available for a more authentic taste!
Cheese: I like a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a creamy, melty topping. If you want to keep it lighter, use a reduced-fat cheese. Nutritional yeast can also be a great dairy-free alternative for flavor.
How Do I Get the Beef Cooked Just Right?
Getting perfectly cooked ground beef is key for a flavorful burrito skillet. Follow these steps for success:
- Heat your skillet before adding the beef. A hot pan ensures it browns nicely.
- Use medium-high heat for even cooking but be careful not to burn it.
- Break apart the beef as it cooks using a wooden spoon to create nice crumbles. This helps with even cooking and flavor absorption.
- Once browned, drain excess fat. You want rich flavor without too much grease.
How to Make Ground Beef Burrito Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skillet:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 4 large flour tortillas, cut into strips or quarters
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and/or Monterey Jack)
For Topping:
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup fresh salsa or pico de gallo
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (for cooking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Ground Beef Burrito Skillet will take about 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll be ready to serve this hearty meal in just about 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef and season it with salt and pepper. Cook the beef for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned. If there’s excess grease, feel free to drain it off for a leaner dish.
2. Add the Ingredients:
Next, stir in the taco seasoning, rinsed black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, corn, and beef broth (or water). Give everything a good stir and let it come to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for another 5 minutes, so the flavors have time to blend together beautifully.
3. Incorporate the Tortillas:
Now, take your tortilla strips and add them to the skillet. Carefully stir them in, making sure they’re well-coated with the beefy mixture. This will help them absorb all those tasty flavors!
4. Melt the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of your skillet masterpiece. Cover the skillet with a lid and turn the heat down to low. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is all melted and bubbly—just the way we love it!
5. Add the Toppings:
Remove the skillet from the heat and top your dish with dollops of sour cream and fresh salsa or pico de gallo. Finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for that little extra pop of flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to dig in! Serve your Ground Beef Burrito Skillet hot, right from the skillet for a fun and casual meal. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will work well as a leaner alternative to beef. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly until no longer pink and consider adjusting the seasoning since turkey and chicken can be milder in flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them along with the ground beef until tender before adding the other ingredients.
