All your favorite taco flavors — in one skillet, ready in under 30 minutes.

This was one of those “what’s for dinner?” nights when I had a pound of ground beef, a can of beans, and not much brainpower left. So I tossed everything into one skillet, added taco seasoning, a handful of shredded cheese, and crossed my fingers.

What came out? Pure magic.

This one-pot beefy taco skillet is everything I love about taco night — bold flavor, melty cheese, and all the toppings — without the mess of multiple pans or bowls. It’s comforting, kid-approved, and totally customizable.

And bonus: cleanup is a breeze.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10)

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp chili powder

• 1 tsp cumin

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)

• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 cup frozen corn

• ¾ cup water or beef broth

• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese

• Fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or Greek yogurt (optional for topping)

Instructions

1. Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Drain any excess grease.

2. Add garlic & spices: Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Simmer: Add diced tomatoes, beans, corn, and water or broth. Stir well, bring to a simmer, and cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes until thickened slightly.

4. Top with cheese: Sprinkle cheese over the top, cover, and let it melt for 2–3 minutes.

5. Serve: Scoop into bowls and top with fresh cilantro, avocado, or a spoonful of Greek yogurt for extra flavor.

Tips & Swaps

• Make it spicy: Add a diced jalapeño or a few dashes of hot sauce.

• Want grains? Stir in a cup of cooked rice or quinoa to bulk it up.

• Dairy-free? Skip the cheese or use your favorite dairy-free alternative.

• Leftovers: Reheat well and make great taco-stuffed sweet potatoes or wraps the next day.

Why You'll Love It

This one-pot taco skillet is a weeknight hero — fast, flavorful, and made with simple pantry staples. It’s cozy, satisfying, and leaves everyone at the table happy (and full!).

Nutrition (Per Serving – serves 4)

• Calories: 380

• Protein: 30g

• Carbs: 22g

• Fat: 20g

• Fiber: 6g

• Sugar: 4g