Ground Beef Burrito Skillet: Easy One-Pan Recipe

Ground Beef Burrito Skillet: Craving the satisfying flavors of a hearty burrito but short on time? Imagine sinking your fork into a cheesy, savory skillet brimming with seasoned ground beef, tender rice, and all your favorite burrito fixings. This isn’t just dinner; it’s a fiesta in a pan, ready in under 30 minutes!

While the exact origins of the skillet burrito are debated, its inspiration is undeniably rooted in the rich culinary traditions of Mexican cuisine. Burritos, with their diverse fillings wrapped in warm tortillas, have been a staple for generations, evolving from simple street food to a beloved dish enjoyed worldwide. This skillet version takes the essence of the burrito and transforms it into an easy-to-prepare, family-friendly meal.

What makes this Ground Beef Burrito Skillet so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of textures and tastes. The savory ground beef, seasoned with a blend of spices, provides a hearty base. The fluffy rice adds a comforting element, while the melted cheese creates a gooey, decadent layer. And let’s not forget the toppings! From creamy sour cream to zesty salsa and fresh cilantro, each bite is an explosion of flavor. But beyond the taste, it’s the convenience that truly shines. This one-pan wonder minimizes cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights. So, ditch the takeout menu and get ready to create a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will love!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
• 1 (1 ounce) packet taco seasoning
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro, green onions

Browning the Beef and Vegetables

1. Get started by browning the ground beef. Place a large skillet (preferably cast iron or another oven-safe skillet) over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease. This step is crucial for preventing a greasy final product.
2. Add the onions and bell peppers. Once the beef is browned, add the chopped yellow onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. You want them to be tender but not mushy. The slight caramelization of the onions will add a depth of flavor to the dish.
3. Incorporate the garlic. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Stir constantly to ensure even cooking. The aroma of garlic at this stage is simply irresistible!
4. Introduce the beans and corn. Now, add the rinsed and drained black beans and drained corn to the skillet. Stir to combine all the ingredients. These add texture and a touch of sweetness to the skillet.
5. Pour in the diced tomatoes and green chilies. Add the can of diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel) to the skillet, undrained. This will add moisture and a bit of a kick to the dish. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use regular diced tomatoes instead.
6. Season with taco seasoning. Sprinkle the taco seasoning packet over the mixture in the skillet. Stir well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the seasoning. This is where the signature burrito flavor comes from!
7. Add water and simmer. Pour in the 1/2 cup of water. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Adding Rice and Cheese

1. Incorporate the cooked rice. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the cooked rice. Make sure the rice is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. The rice adds bulk and helps to absorb some of the excess moisture.
2. Top with cheese. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top of the mixture in the skillet. The combination of these two cheeses creates a delicious and melty topping.

Baking (or Melting Cheese on the Stovetop)

You have two options for melting the cheese: baking in the oven or melting on the stovetop.

Option 1: Baking in the Oven

1. Preheat the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake the skillet. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it to prevent the cheese from burning.
3. Remove from the oven. Carefully remove the skillet from the oven using oven mitts. The skillet will be very hot!

Option 2: Melting Cheese on the Stovetop

1. Cover the skillet. Place the skillet back on the stovetop over low heat. Cover the skillet with a lid.
2. Melt the cheese. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and gooey. Keep a close eye on it to prevent the bottom from burning.

Serving and Toppings

1. Let it cool slightly. Let the skillet cool for a few minutes before serving. This will prevent you from burning your mouth!
2. Add your favorite toppings. Serve the Ground Beef Burrito Skillet directly from the skillet, or spoon portions onto plates. Top with your favorite burrito toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro, and green onions. Get creative and customize it to your liking!

Tips and Variations

• Spice it up! For a spicier skillet, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. You can also use a spicier taco seasoning.
• Use different beans. Instead of black beans, you can use pinto beans or kidney beans.
• Add more vegetables. Feel free to add other vegetables, such as diced zucchini, mushrooms, or corn kernels.
• Make it vegetarian. Omit the ground beef and add more beans or vegetables to make it vegetarian. You can also use a plant-based ground beef substitute.
• Use different cheese. Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or a Mexican cheese blend.
• Make it ahead of time. You can prepare the skillet ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake it, simply add the cheese and bake as directed.
• Freezing Instructions: Allow the skillet to cool completely. Transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through. Add cheese and bake or melt on the stovetop as directed.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve with tortilla chips for dipping, or use it as a filling for tacos or burritos. You can also serve it over a bed of lettuce for a low-carb option.
• Adjusting the Rice: If you prefer a less rice-heavy skillet, reduce the amount of rice to 1/2 cup. Conversely, if you want it more substantial, increase the rice to 1 1/2 cups.
• Controlling the Salt: Taco seasoning packets can vary in salt content. Taste the mixture after adding the seasoning and adjust accordingly. You may need to add a pinch of salt or pepper to taste.
• Using Fresh Tomatoes: If you prefer fresh tomatoes, you can use about 2 cups of diced fresh tomatoes instead of the canned diced tomatoes and green chilies. You may need to add a small can of diced green chilies for the extra kick.
• Adding a Creamy Element: For a creamier skillet, stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese after baking. This will add richness and tanginess.
• Making it in a Slow Cooker: You can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef and vegetables as directed. Transfer to a slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients (except the cheese). Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cheese before serving.
• Leftover Magic: Leftovers are fantastic! They can be used in quesadillas, omelets, or even as a topping for baked potatoes.
• Don’t Overcook the Beef: Overcooked ground beef can become dry and tough. Be sure to cook it just until it’s browned and no longer pink.
• Even Cheese Distribution: For even cheese coverage, sprinkle half of the cheese, then gently press it into the mixture before adding the remaining cheese. This helps the cheese adhere better.

Conclusion:

This Ground Beef Burrito Skillet isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! Seriously, if you’re looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying meal that the whole family will devour, then you absolutely must give this recipe a try. The combination of seasoned ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and that cheesy, melty topping is simply irresistible. It’s the perfect balance of comfort food and fresh ingredients, all cooked in one pan for minimal cleanup – a win-win in my book!

But what truly makes this Ground Beef Burrito Skillet a must-try is its versatility. Feel free to customize it to your liking! For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ground beef mixture or use a hotter salsa. If you’re watching your carb intake, you can easily skip the rice and load up on extra veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or even some chopped cauliflower.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Classic Burrito Bowls: Serve individual portions over a bed of shredded lettuce with a dollop of sour cream, guacamole, and your favorite hot sauce.
* Nacho Night: Spread the skillet mixture over a bed of tortilla chips, top with extra cheese, and bake until bubbly.
* Stuffed Peppers: Use the skillet mixture to stuff bell peppers, then bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
* Quesadillas: Spoon the mixture into tortillas with cheese and grill until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
* Breakfast Burritos: Add scrambled eggs to the skillet mixture for a hearty and flavorful breakfast burrito filling.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings and ingredients to create your own unique version of this Ground Beef Burrito Skillet. Consider adding black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of cotija cheese for an extra layer of flavor. You can also swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer. The possibilities are endless!

I’m confident that this recipe will become a staple in your household, just as it has in mine. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any occasion where you need a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both delicious and easy to prepare.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of this Ground Beef Burrito Skillet. I promise you won’t be disappointed!

And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience! Once you’ve tried the recipe, please come back and share your thoughts in the comments below. Let me know what variations you tried, what toppings you added, and how much your family enjoyed it. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking!