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Cast iron skillet filled with a colorful taco skillet made with ground beef, melted shredded Mexican cheese blend, diced tomatoes, avocado chunks, and sliced green onions. The pan sits on a rustic wooden table next to a bowl of tortilla chips, a jar of taco seasoning, and a vine of fresh cherry tomatoes. A red and orange striped cloth adds a pop of color. Overhead view with vibrant, appetizing presentation.
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Taco Skillet

This cheesy Taco Skillet is packed with flavor, quick to make, and perfect for busy weeknights!
Course Main Dishes
Cuisine Mexican/Tex-Mex
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 527kcal
Author Michelle Ordever

Ingredients

For the Taco Seasoning

  • 2 Tbsp chili powder
  • 1 Tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • tsp fine sea salt
  • 1 tsp ground black pepper
  • ½ tsp ground white pepper
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper*

For the Skillet

  • 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ medium white onion diced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • Sea salt and black pepper to taste
  • lbs ground beef 80% lean
  • 2 Tbsp taco seasoning
  • 10 oz can fire-roasted tomatoes with green chilis drained
  • 4 oz shredded Mexican-blend cheese + extra for serving or topping

To Serve as Tacos

  • Taco shells or lettuce wraps
  • Shredded lettuce
  • Salsa
  • Chopped tomatoes

To Serve as Nachos

  • Tortilla Chips
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Sliced green onions (scallions/spring onions)
  • Chopped avocado or guacamole
  • Sour cream

Instructions

  • Prepare the taco seasoning by combining all ingredients in a bowl. Stir to combine and transfer to an airtight container. Set aside.
    Overhead view of a bowl filled with a blended homemade taco seasoning mixture featuring a warm-toned combination of spices. Next to the bowl are a glass jar with lid and a set of metal measuring spoons on a rustic wooden cutting board. A green kitchen towel is visible in the background. The image suggests storing the blend in an airtight container.
  • Add olive oil to a large skillet set over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic and season with salt and black pepper, to taste. Stir to combine and sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and develops some color.
  • Add beef to skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned. Remove from heat and carefully drain excess fat from skillet.
  • Add taco seasoning and canned fire-roasted tomatoes and green chilis to the pan and stir to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until tomatoes are heated through and the beef mixture is thoroughly coated in the taco seasoning. Taste and add additional taco seasoning, if desired.
  • Remove from heat and top with shredded cheese. Cover for 1-2 minutes or until cheese is completely melted. Serve immediately with desired accompaniments. Enjoy!
    Side angle of a cast iron skillet filled with a colorful taco skillet made with ground beef, shredded cheese, avocado chunks, and diced tomatoes. The dish is garnished with green onions and set on a wooden table. In the background, there's a jar of taco seasoning, fresh cherry tomatoes on the vine, a bowl of tortilla chips, and a red-striped napkin for a cozy presentation.

Notes

  • *You can use more or less Cayenne pepper as desired, from a pinch (⅛ tsp) to half a teaspoon.
  • Remaining taco seasoning can be stored in an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid for several months.

Nutrition

Calories: 527kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 34g | Fat: 38g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 17g | Trans Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 118mg | Sodium: 1468mg | Potassium: 591mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 2073IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 418mg | Iron: 5mg