Name: Beef Taco Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; 1/2 medium onion, chopped; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 (14 fluid ounce) can black beans, drained & rinsed; 1 (14.5 fluid ounce) jar salsa (use your favorite kind); 4 medium flour tortillas, cut into quarters; 1 cup Tex-Mex cheese blend, shredded; Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped scallions, cilantro, avocado

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This Beef Taco Skillet is a quick, one-pan meal that packs bold flavor with minimal cleanup. Loaded with seasoned ground beef, black beans, salsa, soft tortillas, and a melty Tex-Mex cheese topping, it’s the perfect family-friendly weeknight dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This taco skillet is a dinner win for so many reasons. It’s comforting, hearty, and packed with Tex-Mex flavor. You only need one pan, and the prep is incredibly simple. Plus, it’s easily customizable with your favorite toppings and heat level. Whether you’re cooking for a family or just craving a cheesy, beefy dish, this skillet delivers every time.

Beef Taco Skillet

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound lean ground beef
1/2 medium onion, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 (14 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 (14.5 oz) jar salsa (your favorite variety)
4 medium flour tortillas, cut into quarters
1 cup shredded Tex-Mex cheese blend
Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped scallions, cilantro, avocado, etc.

Directions

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and chopped onions. Break up the beef with a spoon and sprinkle in all the spices (garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder).
Cook the beef mixture for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.
Preheat your oven’s broiler to high and position the rack in the top third of the oven.
Reduce the skillet heat to medium. Stir in the black beans, salsa, and quartered tortillas. Gently toss everything together using two spoons to ensure the tortillas are evenly distributed throughout the skillet.
Let the mixture heat through for 2–3 minutes.
Sprinkle the shredded Tex-Mex cheese over the top of the skillet. Transfer the skillet to the oven and broil for 2–4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to brown. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Remove from oven and serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Use hot salsa or add diced jalapeños for extra heat.
Protein Swap: Replace ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative.
Crunchy Topping: Crush tortilla chips over the top after baking for added texture.
Low-Carb Version: Use low-carb tortillas or skip them altogether and serve the mixture over a bed of lettuce or cauliflower rice.
Cheese Options: Try Monterey Jack, cheddar, or pepper jack cheese instead of Tex-Mex blend.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: For best texture, freeze the beef mixture without tortillas or cheese. Thaw and add tortillas and cheese when reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Yes, corn tortillas work great if you prefer them or need a gluten-free option. They may break apart a bit more but still taste delicious.

Do I have to use a broiler?

No, you can cover the skillet with a lid to melt the cheese, but the broiler gives a bubbly, golden top that’s hard to beat.

What type of salsa should I use?

Use any salsa you love—chunky, smooth, mild, or spicy. Just avoid overly watery salsa to keep the dish from getting soggy.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the beef and bean mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. Add tortillas and cheese just before baking.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, use plant-based ground “meat” or crumbled tofu or lentils in place of the beef.

How do I prevent the tortillas from getting too soft?

If you prefer crispier tortillas, toast them separately and add just before broiling.

Can I use different beans?

Absolutely. Pinto beans, kidney beans, or a mix of beans all work well in this dish.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes. It’s flavorful but not too spicy (depending on the salsa you use), and the cheesy top is a big hit with kids.

What’s the best skillet to use?

A large oven-safe skillet like a cast iron or stainless steel skillet works best for transferring to the broiler.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes. Use a larger skillet or transfer to a casserole dish before broiling if you’re doubling it.

Conclusion

This Beef Taco Skillet is a true one-pan wonder. With simple ingredients and just 30 minutes from start to finish, it brings bold, comforting flavors to the table with minimal effort. Customize it to your taste, top it with your favorite fixings, and dig into this hearty, cheesy crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.