Beef Taco Skillet: The Ultimate One-Pan Tex-Mex Dinner
Smoky tortillas add depth to a hearty blend of savory meat, sweet potatoes, and beans.
If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that is bold, satisfying, and quick to prepare, nothing beats a beef taco skillet. With the classic flavors of seasoned ground beef, hearty sweet potatoes, black beans, and crispy charred corn tortillas all cooked together in one pan, this dish brings the best of Tex-Mex right to your table. Top it off with fresh veggies, creamy avocado, and tangy cheese to please everyone at the table.
Why Choose a Beef Taco Skillet?
This skillet dinner takes everything you love about tacos—savory meat, spicy seasoning, and crunchy tortillas—and transforms it into a hassle-free, shareable meal. No taco shell assembly needed; just scoop and garnish!
- One-pan cleanup means less time in the kitchen, more time relaxing.
- Flexible toppings and mix-ins make it easy to customize for any taste.
- Great for leftovers, meal prep, or a fun family supper.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Corn tortillas (6-inch) | 6 |
| Ground beef | 1 1/2 lb |
| Chili powder | 2 tsp |
| Ground cumin | 2 tsp |
| Kosher salt | 1 tsp |
| Black pepper | to taste |
| Vegetable oil | 1 Tbsp |
| Sweet potatoes (peeled, 1/2-inch pieces) | 2 small (~1 lb) |
| Black beans (drained, rinsed) | 1 (14.5 oz) can |
| Chipotle chile in adobo (chopped) | 1 |
| Adobo sauce | 1 tsp |
| Jarred salsa | 2 cups |
| Chopped avocado, sliced radishes, crumbled queso fresco, sliced scallions | to taste (for topping) |
Step-by-Step Directions
- Char the Tortillas: Lightly blacken the tortillas directly over a gas burner or in a hot dry skillet until edges are just starting to crisp and blister. Let cool, then tear into large, rustic pieces.
Tip: Charred tortillas add smoky flavor and a toothsome texture to the dish. - Cook the Beef: In a large cast-iron skillet set over medium-high heat, add ground beef and season with chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned—about 5 minutes. Transfer beef to a bowl and set aside.
- Sauté the Sweet Potatoes: Add vegetable oil to the skillet, followed by the sweet potatoes. Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on the edges and starting to soften (about 5–7 minutes).
Why sweet potatoes? They provide subtle sweetness and pair beautifully with the spices. - Add Beans & Flavor: Stir in black beans, chopped chipotle, adobo sauce, and 1/4 cup salsa. Return cooked beef to the skillet along with 1 cup water. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and sweet potatoes are tender (another 5–7 minutes).
- Mix in Tortilla Pieces & Salsa: Fold in remaining salsa (about 1 3/4 cups) and add water if you like a saucier base. Stir in crispy tortilla pieces until well distributed.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve immediately, loaded up with your choice of toppings:
- Chopped avocado
- Thinly sliced radishes
- Crumble of queso fresco or cotija cheese
- Sliced scallions
- Pico de gallo, guacamole, sour cream, or shredded cheddar (optional)
Tip: Serve straight from the skillet for a rustic family-style presentation.
Expert Tips for Success
- Char for Character: Charring the tortillas before tearing them adds smoky depth and authentic taco flavor.
- Meat Substitute: Ground turkey or chicken may be substituted for beef for a lighter version with equally great results.
- Adjust the Heat: Use more chipotle and adobo sauce for extra spice, or omit for a milder dish.
- Vegetarian Option: Double the beans and use veggie crumbles or mushrooms instead of beef.
- Make It Ahead: Prepare the filling and store in the fridge for up to three days; reheat and add tortilla pieces and toppings before serving.
Customizing Your Skillet
This recipe is highly flexible. Try these customization ideas to suit your family’s preferences:
- Add extra veggies: Bell peppers, zucchini, or corn make tasty additions.
- Cheese lovers: Mix in shredded cheddar or pepper jack for gooey pockets of flavor.
- Low-carb option: Substitute low-carb tortillas or cut the tortillas back for fewer carbs.
- Make it dairy-free: Skip the cheese and sour cream, or use plant-based alternatives.
What to Serve With Beef Taco Skillet
- Mexican Rice or Cilantro Lime Rice: The perfect starchy side.
- Crisp green salad with lime dressing: Keeps things fresh and balanced.
- Classic guacamole and chips: For a crowd-pleasing appetizer or side.
- Extra salsa or hot sauce: For those who like it spicy!
Suggested Toppings and Mix-Ins
- Guacamole
- Pico de gallo
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Sliced jalapeños
FAQs: Beef Taco Skillet
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Yes, but char flour tortillas gently as they burn faster. Corn tortillas add smoky flavor and hold up best to skillet cooking.
What others are reading
How do I store leftovers?
Cool completely, transfer to an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave, and add fresh toppings before serving.
Is it freezer-friendly?
The beef and veggie filling can be frozen for up to two months. Add fresh tortilla pieces and toppings after reheating.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Swap beef for extra beans, lentils, or plant-based grounds, and adjust seasoning to taste.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, and all other ingredients qualify. Always check labels for processed items.
Comparisons: Beef Taco Skillet vs. Other Taco Casseroles
| Dish | Prep Time | Main Components | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beef Taco Skillet | 30 min | Skillet-seared beef, sweet potatoes, beans, tortillas | One-pan, stovetop, quick, customizable toppings |
| Taco Casserole | 40 min | Ground beef, rice/beans, sauce, baked with cheese | Baked, layered, requires oven, heavier |
| Sheet Pan Tacos | 35 min | Ground beef, roasted veggies, assembled shells | Sheet-pan, individual shells, more crispy |
Tips from the Pioneer Woman Kitchen
- “Mix up the toppings! This skillet dinner tastes great with guac, pico de gallo, sour cream, or shredded cheddar on top.”
- Use a cast-iron skillet for even heat and flavorful browning.
- Char tortillas for a touch of fire and fun!
- Don’t forget a squeeze of fresh lime before serving.
Beyond the Taco Skillet: More Beef Dinner Inspiration
- Make The Best Steak Rub For Every Cut
- Best Summer Beef Chili
- Best Grilled Steak Kebabs With Tzatziki
- Love Meatloaf? Try Ree’s BBQ Meatballs Next
- Cheeseburger Pie Is the Best Weeknight Dinner Fix
- A Slow Cooker Is the Best Way To Cook Beef Brisket
- Ree’s Chicken Fried Steak Is Total Comfort Food
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I make the beef taco skillet vegetarian?
A: Omit the beef and substitute more beans or use plant-based crumbles. Use vegetable broth instead of water and pile on veggies.
Q: Can I add rice to the beef taco skillet?
A: Yes, stir in cooked rice along with the beans and sweet potatoes for extra bulk and nutrition.
Q: What other cheeses work as toppings?
A: Cotija, Monterey Jack, or shredded cheddar offer different flavor profiles and textures.
Q: Can I use a different protein?
A: Ground chicken, turkey, or pork work well. Adjust seasoning accordingly.
Q: Are sweet potatoes necessary?
A: No, but they add color, sweetness, and nutrition. Regular potatoes or squash may be substituted.
Final Thoughts
This beef taco skillet delivers the lively flavors and colorful spirit of Tex-Mex cuisine in the easiest possible way. Customizable, hearty, and completely satisfying, it’s destined to become a weeknight favorite for busy families. Assemble your ingredients, heat up your skillet, and let dinner practically make itself.
References
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