Cheesy Taco Ground Beef Potato Skillet
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
- 2 cups diced potatoes (about 2 medium potatoes)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, guacamole, chopped cilantro
Step-by-Step
1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Stir in the taco seasoning, chopped onion, and red bell pepper. Cook until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the black beans, corn, diced potatoes, and beef broth to the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
4. Cover the skillet and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in half of the cheddar cheese and half of the Monterey Jack cheese.
6. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top of the skillet.
7. Cover the skillet and let it sit for a few minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with your favorite taco toppings.
The Ultimate Comfort Food: A Cheesy Taco Potato Skillet Deep Dive
This Cheesy Taco Ground Beef Potato Skillet is the perfect weeknight meal. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means fewer dishes to wash!
### Why This Skillet Recipe Rocks
This recipe combines the best of both worlds: the comforting heartiness of a potato skillet and the zesty, savory flavors of a taco. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
The versatility of this skillet is another major plus. You can easily customize it to your liking by adding or substituting ingredients.
### Key Ingredients and Their Roles
Ground beef provides the protein base, while the taco seasoning delivers that signature taco flavor. Potatoes add substance and heartiness to the dish.
The onion and bell pepper contribute to both flavor and texture. Black beans and corn add a touch of sweetness and additional nutrients.
Beef broth helps to cook the potatoes and create a flavorful sauce. And of course, the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese bring everything together with their melty, gooey goodness.
Customizing Your Skillet: Adaptations and Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can adapt it to your taste and dietary needs.
### Swapping the Protein
Not a fan of ground beef? No problem! You can easily substitute ground turkey, ground chicken, or even crumbled chorizo.
For a vegetarian option, try using plant-based ground meat alternatives or simply omit the meat altogether and add more beans or vegetables.
### Vegetable Variations
Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Diced sweet potatoes, zucchini, or even mushrooms would all be delicious additions.
You can also add a can of diced tomatoes or a jar of your favorite salsa for extra flavor and moisture.
### Spice It Up!
If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the skillet.
You can also use a spicy taco seasoning blend or add a chopped jalapeño pepper.
Tips and Tricks for Skillet Perfection
Here are a few tips and tricks to ensure your Cheesy Taco Ground Beef Potato Skillet turns out perfectly every time.
### Achieving Perfectly Cooked Potatoes
The key to perfectly cooked potatoes is to dice them into small, uniform pieces. This will ensure that they cook evenly.
Also, be sure to use enough beef broth to cover the potatoes. This will help them to cook through without burning.
### Preventing Sticking
To prevent the skillet from sticking, use a non-stick skillet or lightly grease your skillet with cooking oil.
Stir the skillet occasionally while it’s cooking to prevent the potatoes from sticking to the bottom.
### Mastering the Cheese Melt
For the ultimate cheese melt, use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting properly.
Cover the skillet tightly while the cheese is melting to trap the heat and help the cheese melt quickly and evenly.
Serving Suggestions and Complementary Dishes
This Cheesy Taco Ground Beef Potato Skillet is a meal in itself, but it’s also delicious served with a variety of sides and toppings.
### Topping Ideas
The possibilities are endless when it comes to toppings for this skillet. Some popular choices include sour cream, salsa, guacamole, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, and sliced green onions.
You can also add a dollop of Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative to sour cream.
### Side Dish Pairings
For a complete meal, serve this skillet with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple salad.
Cornbread or tortilla chips would also be great additions.
### Making it a Fiesta
Turn your meal into a full-blown fiesta by serving it with margaritas or Mexican beer. Don’t forget the festive decorations!
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
This skillet is just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping or enjoying leftovers.
### Proper Storage Techniques
Store leftover skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the skillet for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before freezing.
### Reheating Methods
To reheat the skillet, simply microwave it until heated through. You can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
If you’re reheating from frozen, thaw the skillet in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
### Reviving the Texture
If the skillet seems a little dry after reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to help revive the texture. You may also want to add a little extra cheese for a fresher, meltier topping.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, you can use any type of potato you like. Russet potatoes, Yukon gold potatoes, and red potatoes all work well in this recipe.
Can I make this skillet in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the slow cooker. Brown the ground beef and onion, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Can I freeze this skillet?
Yes, this skillet freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
How can I make this healthier?
To make this skillet healthier, use lean ground beef or ground turkey. You can also add more vegetables and reduce the amount of cheese. Using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream is another good option.
What if I don’t have beef broth?
You can substitute chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water in a pinch. However, beef broth will give the skillet the best flavor.
