This Ground Beef Burrito Skillet is a wonderful one-pan meal that packs a punch of flavor! With ground beef, bell peppers, and spices, it’s both hearty and satisfying.
Plus, you just throw everything into the skillet and let it cook—no fuss! I love topping mine with cheese and sour cream for that extra yum factor. 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of the dish, giving it great flavor. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, try using crumbled tofu or a plant-based meat substitute!
Black Beans: They add protein and fiber. If you don’t have black beans, kidney beans or pinto beans work well too. Canned beans save time, but dried beans can be cooked ahead for a fresher taste.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: This is what gives the dish a nice kick. If you prefer less spice, you could choose plain diced tomatoes instead, or use crushed tomatoes with a pinch of chili powder.
Cheese: I love using a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for extra creaminess. Feel free to use your favorite melting cheese like pepper jack for a spicy twist, or even a dairy-free cheese if you’re keeping it vegan.
Cilantro: A fresh herb that brightens the dish. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a great alternative to maintain freshness without the unique flavor of cilantro.
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Rice Perfectly?
Cooking the rice just right is important for a balanced texture. Here’s a quick guide:
- After adding the uncooked rice to the skillet, make sure to pour in enough liquid. The rice needs to absorb it to cook well.
- Bring the mixture to a hard boil first, then lower the heat to a simmer. Covering the skillet traps steam, helping the rice cook through.
- Avoid lifting the lid too much while it’s cooking, as this releases the steam and can make the rice chewy instead of fluffy.
- Check for doneness at 20 minutes; if the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed, you’re good to go!
How to Make Ground Beef Burrito Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 oz)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and/or Monterey Jack)
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for topping)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: diced avocado, jalapeños, or extra salsa
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Ground Beef Burrito Skillet takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook, totaling around 35 minutes to get this tasty dish on your table. It’s quick, easy, and a wonderful one-pan meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook it, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is fully browned and no longer pink. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once done, drain any extra fat from the skillet.
2. Add Seasoning:
Next, sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked beef and stir it in. Allow the seasoning to cook with the beef for about a minute until it becomes fragrant.
3. Mix In the Other Ingredients:
Now, stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained black beans, corn, and uncooked rice. Mix everything together well so that the ingredients are evenly combined.
4. Add Liquid and Cook:
Pour the beef broth (or water) into the skillet and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s boiling, lower the heat to a simmer and cover the skillet. Let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has soaked up most of the liquid.
5. Add Salsa and Cheese:
After the rice is cooked, stir in the salsa and half of the shredded cheese. Give it a good mix to combine. Then, sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and cover the skillet again, letting it sit for about 5 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Remove the skillet from heat and top your delicious burrito mixture with sour cream and chopped cilantro for a fresh touch. If you like, you can also add diced avocado or jalapeños for extra flavor. Serve it warm straight from the skillet and enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for ground beef in this recipe. Just be aware that it may cook a bit faster, so watch it closely while browning to avoid drying it out.
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Taco Seasoning?
You can make your own taco seasoning by combining 1 tsp each of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt, plus 1/2 tsp of oregano and pepper. Adjust the spice levels according to your taste!
Can I Prepare This Skillet Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the entire dish in advance! Cook it through, then let it cool before storing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen it up.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This dish also freezes well! If freezing, let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and it should last for about 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm in the microwave or on the stovetop.
