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Quick 15-Minute Taco Skillet Recipe Easy Homemade Beef and Bean Dinner

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A quick and easy taco skillet with ground beef, beans, and bold flavors, ready in just 15 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights and flexible for various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (85% lean recommended)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz / 411 g) fire-roasted diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 2 tbsp taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade blend of cumin, paprika, chili powder, oregano)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • 1 tbsp lime juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat the skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Let it warm for about 1 minute until shimmering.
  2. Add the minced garlic and diced onion to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Avoid burning the garlic.
  3. Add 1 pound (450 g) of ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and no pink remains. Drain excess fat if desired.
  4. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning evenly over the beef. Stir well to coat all the meat and cook for another 1-2 minutes to toast the seasoning.
  5. Stir in 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) drained black beans and 1 can (14.5 oz / 411 g) fire-roasted diced tomatoes with green chilies. Mix and bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Let the skillet simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly and flavors meld. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Sprinkle 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the skillet. Cover with a lid or plate and let it melt for 1-2 minutes. Optionally, broil for 1 minute watching closely.
  8. Remove from heat, squeeze fresh lime juice over the top, and scatter chopped cilantro if using. Serve hot with sides or tortillas.

Notes

Do not rush browning the beef to develop flavor; let it sit undisturbed for a minute or two before stirring. Drain and rinse canned beans to reduce sodium and prevent excess liquid. Use good melting cheese like sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack. Add a splash of water or beef broth if skillet looks too dry while simmering. Resting after adding cheese helps flavors meld. For spicier version, add jalapeños or cayenne pepper. Substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, tofu, or lentils for dietary preferences.

Nutrition

Keywords: quick taco skillet, ground beef recipe, easy dinner, taco skillet, beef and beans, 15-minute meal, weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://ariaappetite.com/quick-15-minute-taco-skillet-recipe-easy-homemade-beef-and-bean-dinner/