Easy Mexican Skillet with Beef & Veggies Recipe

If you’re looking for a vibrant, hearty dish that combines bold flavors with easy preparation, this Mexican Skillet with Beef & Veggies is exactly what you need. This recipe brings together juicy ground beef, colorful vegetables, and classic Mexican spices in one skillet, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy. It’s all about bright colors, rich textures, and unbeatable taste, delivered with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy Prep: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
• One-Pan Wonder: Uses just one skillet to simplify cooking and cleanup.
• Flavor Packed: Bold Mexican spices create a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
• Nutritious Veggies: Colorful peppers, tomatoes, and corn add crunch and vitamins.
• Family Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, great for crowd-pleasing meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Mexican Skillet with Beef & Veggies comes from a handful of simple, fresh ingredients that complement each other beautifully. Each component is essential for achieving the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color.

• Ground Beef: Use lean beef for juicy, flavorful protein that cooks quickly.
• Bell Peppers: Red, green, or yellow peppers add vibrant color and sweetness.
• Onion: Adds depth and a mild sharpness to balance the richness of beef.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic delivers aromatic and savory notes.
• Diced Tomatoes: Provide acidity and moisture, enhancing the sauce.
• Corn Kernels: Bring a touch of sweetness and texture contrast.
• Taco Seasoning: A blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano to create authentic Mexican flavors.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing ingredients with a light, healthy fat.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, helping to bring all the flavors together.
• Fresh Cilantro: Optional but adds a burst of freshness before serving.

Variations for Mexican Skillet with Beef & Veggies

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, making it easy to adapt according to what you have on hand, your dietary needs, or your personal flavor preferences. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!

• Swap Proteins: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a twist.
• Spice it Up: Add jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
• Veggie Boost: Incorporate zucchini, spinach, or black beans for more nutrition.
• Cheese Finish: Top with shredded cheddar or a sprinkle of queso fresco for creaminess.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of traditional sides.

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How to Make Mexican Skillet with Beef & Veggies

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Chop the onions, bell peppers, and garlic finely to ensure they cook evenly and blend well with the beef. Have your canned diced tomatoes and corn ready to add later.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s fully browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks for even browning.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the onions, bell peppers, and garlic directly to the skillet with the beef. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes, Corn, and Seasonings

Stir in the diced tomatoes, corn kernels, and taco seasoning. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Season with salt, pepper, and additional spices if needed. Don’t be shy to taste as you go! This step ensures your Mexican Skillet with Beef & Veggies is perfectly seasoned.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro for a bright herbal finish, then serve hot straight from the skillet.

Pro Tips for Making Mexican Skillet with Beef & Veggies

• Use Fresh Spices: Fresh taco seasoning mixes make a big difference in boldness and aroma.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Brown the beef in batches if needed to avoid steaming instead of searing.
• Drain Excess Fat: For a leaner dish, drain the fat after browning the beef before adding veggies.
• Vegetable Size: Cut veggies uniformly so they cook evenly and present nicely.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the skillet sit for a couple of minutes to let flavors deepen.

How to Serve Mexican Skillet with Beef & Veggies

Garnishes

Top your skillet with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, sliced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream to enhance the flavors and add freshness.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice, warm tortillas, or a crisp side salad to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the mixture in crispy taco shells or stuff into bell peppers for a colorful presentation that’s perfect for parties or meal prep.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the Mexican Skillet with Beef & Veggies cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

This dish freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months, making it easy to enjoy later on busy days.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave on medium power until warmed through, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative in this recipe, and it will absorb the spices just as well as beef.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the Mexican Skillet with Beef & Veggies is naturally gluten-free as long as your taco seasoning doesn’t contain wheat fillers—always check the label.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the beef for plant-based crumbles or add extra beans and veggies for protein and texture.

What is the best way to add heat to this dish?

Add diced jalapeños during the sauté step or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat without overwhelming the flavors.

How do I prevent the vegetables from getting mushy?

Make sure to sauté the veggies until just tender and avoid overcooking; uniform chopping also helps them cook evenly.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Skillet with Beef & Veggies offers an unbeatable combination of ease, flavor, and nutrition that you’ll want to make again and again. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you crave something comforting and vibrant. Try this recipe and enjoy a delicious, wholesome meal that feels like a celebration in every bite.

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