One-Pan Tex-Mex Ground Beef Skillet

Tired of complicated weeknight dinners that leave you with a mountain of dishes? Get ready to welcome a new hero into your kitchen! This One-Pan Tex-Mex Ground Beef Skillet is a zesty, flavor-packed meal that delivers big taste with minimal cleanup, making it an absolute must-share recipe.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Tex-Mex Ground Beef Skillet

This vibrant Tex-Mex beef skillet is a game-changer for busy evenings and hungry families. It’s packed with savory flavors and incredible convenience.

• Ready in Just 30 Minutes: From start to finish, you can have a hearty, delicious meal on the table in half an hour.
• Effortless Cleanup: A single skillet means fewer dishes and more time enjoying your evening.
• Bursting with Flavor: Experience a delightful blend of zesty Tex-Mex spices, rich beef, and savory beans.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with common, affordable pantry staples, this recipe is kind to your wallet.
• Satisfying & Hearty: This dish truly fills you up, thanks to the combination of lean ground beef, rice, and black beans.
• Family-Favorite: Its approachable flavors make it a hit with both adults and kids alike.
• Customizable: Easily adapt it with your favorite toppings or add-ins for a personalized touch.

Ingredients Needed for Your Tex-Mex Skillet

Gathering your ingredients is a breeze for this simple yet sensational one-pan wonder. Each component plays a crucial role in building that irresistible Tex-Mex flavor profile.

• 450g / 1 lb lean ground beef: Choose lean ground beef for less fat to drain.
• 185g / 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked: Long-grain works best here for its fluffy texture.
• 425g / 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed: Rinsing helps remove excess sodium and starchy liquid.
• 280g / 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies: Don’t drain these, the liquid adds essential moisture and flavor.
• 480ml / 2 cups beef broth: Low-sodium broth gives you more control over the saltiness.
• 110g / 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Freshly shredded melts smoother than pre-shredded.
• 1 tbsp taco seasoning: Use your favorite brand or homemade blend for authentic taste.
• Fresh cilantro for garnish: A sprinkle of fresh herbs brightens the entire dish.

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Essential Equipment

You truly only need a few key items to bring this One-Pan Tex-Mex Ground Beef Skillet to life, highlighting its simplicity and convenience.

• Large Skillet with a Lid: This is your primary cooking vessel. A good, heavy-bottomed skillet (10-12 inch) ensures even cooking and prevents sticking. The lid is crucial for simmering the rice perfectly.
• Sturdy Spoon or Spatula: Essential for browning the beef and stirring everything together.

Recipe Overview

Here’s a quick glance at what to expect when making your flavorful Tex-Mex skillet.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Difficulty: Easy

Step-by-Step Instructions for Your One-Pan Tex-Mex Ground Beef Skillet

Let’s dive into making this incredibly satisfying meal! Follow these simple steps for a truly delicious result.

1. Brown the BeefIn your large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until it’s no longer pink. As it cooks, break it apart with your spoon. Once fully cooked, carefully drain any excess fat from the skillet. This step builds a foundational flavor for the entire dish.

2. Combine & SimmerInto the skillet with the drained beef, stir in the uncooked rice, rinsed black beans, the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained), beef broth, and taco seasoning. Give it a good stir to ensure everything is well combined and the rice is submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil over medium-high heat.

   
   

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3. Cook the RiceOnce boiling, immediately reduce the heat to low and snugly cover the skillet with its lid. Allow it to simmer gently for 18-20 minutes. Resist the urge to peek during this time, as the steam is essential for cooking the rice. The rice should become tender and all the liquid should be absorbed, creating a wonderfully moist and flavorful base.

4. Melt the Cheese & GarnishAfter the rice has cooked and absorbed the liquid, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the skillet. Replace the lid for just 1 minute to allow the cheese to beautifully melt into a gooey, irresistible layer. Finally, remove from heat and generously garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. If the rice is still a bit firm, add a splash more broth and cover for another 2-3 minutes.

   
   

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Tips for Success with Your One-Pan Tex-Mex Ground Beef Skillet

Elevate your Tex-Mex skillet from good to absolutely unforgettable with these expert tips, ensuring a perfect result every time.

• Don’t Peek During Simmering: The lid traps steam crucial for cooking the rice. Opening it releases heat and steam, extending cook time and potentially leading to undercooked rice.
• Adjust Spice Level: If you love more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce with the taco seasoning.
• Proper Rice Absorption: Ensure all liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. If not, add 1/4 cup more broth, cover, and cook for another 5 minutes on low.
• Rest for Flavor: After the cheese melts, let the skillet rest off the heat for 2-3 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the rice to fully set.

Variations & Substitutions for Your Tex-Mex Ground Beef Skillet

This adaptable Tex-Mex Ground Beef Skillet is incredibly forgiving, allowing for easy dietary swaps and exciting flavor twists to suit your preferences.

• Make it Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure your taco seasoning and beef broth are certified GF.
• Dairy-Free Option: Omit the cheese or substitute with your favorite dairy-free shredded cheese alternative.
• Add Veggies: Stir in a diced bell pepper, corn, or frozen peas with the rice for extra nutrients and color.
• Spice it Up: Include a finely diced jalapeño (seeds removed for less heat) when browning the beef, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Different Grains: While white rice is specified, you could experiment with brown rice (note: cooking time and liquid amount will need adjusting) or even quinoa.

Serving Suggestions

This One-Pan Tex-Mex Ground Beef Skillet is a complete meal on its own, but these simple additions can enhance the experience even further.

• Dollop of Creaminess: A spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a cooling, tangy contrast.
• Freshness Factor: Top with diced avocado, a squeeze of fresh lime juice, or a scattering of extra diced tomatoes.
• Crunchy Side: Serve alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing counterpoint.
• Extra Kick: Sliced fresh or pickled jalapeños are perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
• Beverage Pairing: A cold glass of unsweetened iced tea, sparkling water with lime, or horchata would complement the flavors beautifully.

Health Benefits of This Tex-Mex Skillet Meal

Beyond its incredible flavor and convenience, this One-Pan Tex-Mex Ground Beef Skillet also offers a range of excellent nutritional benefits for your well-being.

• Protein-Packed: Lean ground beef provides essential protein, crucial for muscle repair and satiety.
• Fiber Rich: Black beans contribute significant dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting fullness.
• Nutrient-Dense: Tomatoes with green chilies offer vitamins and antioxidants.
• Balanced Meal: This dish delivers a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats in one satisfying bowl.

Storage & Reheating Your Tex-Mex Ground Beef Skillet

Enjoy your delicious Tex-Mex skillet for days to come with these straightforward storage and reheating tips, ensuring every serving is as good as the first.

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium-low heat. If reheating on the stovetop, add a splash of beef broth or water to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions About the One-Pan Tex-Mex Ground Beef Skillet

Here are some common questions readers ask about making this delightful one-pan meal, helping you tackle any culinary queries with ease.

• Can I use brown rice instead?Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice typically requires more liquid (about 2.5 cups per cup of rice) and a longer simmer time (around 40-45 minutes). Always check for tenderness before serving.

• Can I double the recipe?Absolutely! You might need a very large skillet or even a Dutch oven to accommodate the doubled ingredients. The cook time might increase slightly, so keep an eye on the rice.

• What if I don’t have beef broth?You can substitute with chicken broth or even water, though beef broth adds a richer depth of flavor to the overall dish.

• Can I add more vegetables?Yes, feel free to stir in corn, diced bell peppers, or even zucchini during the last 10 minutes of simmering for added nutrition and texture.

• How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom?Ensure you are cooking on low heat once covered. A good quality, heavy-bottomed skillet also helps prevent sticking. Stirring briefly once after 10 minutes of simmering can also help, but avoid opening the lid too often.

  
  

More Delicious Dishes

If you loved the ease and flavor of this Tex-Mex skillet, you’ll definitely want to try these other fantastic recipes from our collection!

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Conclusion

This One-Pan Tex-Mex Ground Beef Skillet is proof that extraordinary flavor doesn’t require extra effort. It’s a perfect solution for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare and even quicker to clean up. We hope you enjoy this easy weeknight win! Follow us on Facebook and Pinterest for more delightful recipes.

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