This Easy Ground Beef Burrito Skillet is a one-pan wonder filled with flavorful beef, beans, and rice all mixed with zesty spices. It’s quick to make and even quicker to clean up!
One of my favorite parts is that you can top it with cheese, salsa, or whatever you love. It’s like having a burrito party in a bowl, and who doesn’t love a party? 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the show! You can use lean ground beef for a healthier option. If you want to keep it lighter, ground turkey or chicken works well too. For a vegetarian twist, try using lentils or a meat substitute like tempeh.
Beans: Black and pinto beans add protein and fiber. You can easily swap these for kidney beans, chickpeas, or any beans you have on hand. Canned beans make this recipe quick, but if you prefer dry beans, just make sure to cook them beforehand!
Rice: I use white rice for a classic touch, but brown rice adds more fiber. Quinoa is a great alternative too if you want something different and free of gluten. Just adjust the cooking time as needed!
Cheese: A Mexican blend cheese is great, but feel free to use cheddar or pepper jack for more spice. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, cashew cheese or a store-bought vegan cheese can work well.
How Do You Ensure the Perfectly Cooked Beef and Onions?
Getting your beef and onions just right is crucial for a flavorful base. Here’s my foolproof method:
- Start with a heated skillet on medium heat to prevent sticking.
- Sear the ground beef until browned; don’t rush this step as it adds flavor.
- Cook the onions until they’re soft and translucent. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
- Add garlic towards the end of the onion cooking time; it cooks quickly and you don’t want it to burn.
- Be sure to drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being too greasy.
With these tips, you’ll ensure the beef and onions provide a great foundation for your burrito skillet!
Easy Ground Beef Burrito Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup salsa (mild or medium)
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese (cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortilla chips, roughly crushed (about 1 cup)
- Fresh tomatoes, diced, for garnish
- Sour cream, for serving
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes cooking the beef and veggies, and about 10-15 more minutes to combine everything and let it simmer. It’s a quick and filling meal perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook it until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion turns translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant. This step adds lots of flavor to your dish!
3. Add the Spices:
Sprinkle in the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together really well so that the spices coat the beef mixture evenly. This is where the magic of flavor begins!
4. Mix in the Main Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add your cooked rice, black beans, pinto beans, and salsa. Stir everything together until combined. Let it cook for another 3-5 minutes so it’s all heated through and the flavors meld together.
5. Layer with Chips and Cheese:
Take your crushed tortilla chips and sprinkle them evenly over the mixture in the skillet. Then, cover the top with shredded cheese. This will create a delicious cheesy layer!
6. Melt the Cheese:
Cover the skillet with a lid or some foil and let it cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, until the cheese is completely melted. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning the bottom.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once the cheese is melted, remove the skillet from heat. Top your delicious creation with dollops of sour cream, diced fresh tomatoes, and chopped fresh cilantro. These toppings add freshness and great flavor!
8. Enjoy!
Serve your easy burrito skillet hot and enjoy a delightful dinner that’s full of flavor and goodness!
FAQ for Easy Ground Beef Burrito Skillet
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you want a vegetarian dish, try using lentils or a meat substitute like tempeh for a great alternative!
What Can I Substitute for the Beans?
If you don’t have black and pinto beans, feel free to use any canned beans you have on hand, such as kidney beans or chickpeas. Just make sure they are drained and rinsed before adding them to the skillet!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Adding a splash of broth or water can help restore moisture!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mix (without the cheese and chips) a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and when you’re ready to enjoy it, heat it up, top with crushed chips and cheese, and then melt the cheese before serving!
