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Healthy Beef Taco Skillet - A Flavorful One-Pan Dinner

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Lean ground beef (90–93% lean), 1 pound
  • Yellow onion, 1 small, diced
  • Bell pepper (red, orange, or yellow), 1, diced
  • Garlic, 3 cloves, minced
  • Black beans, 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
  • Corn kernels, 1 cup (frozen or canned, drained)
  • Diced tomatoes with green chiles, 1 can (10 oz) or plain diced tomatoes
  • Tomato paste, 1 tablespoon
  • Low-sodium chicken or beef broth, 1/2 cup
  • Olive oil, 1 tablespoon
  • Chili powder, 1 tablespoon
  • Ground cumin, 2 teaspoons
  • Smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon
  • Oregano, 1/2 teaspoon
  • Garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon
  • Onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon
  • Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Lime, 1, cut into wedges
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
  • Optional toppings: avocado or guacamole, shredded lettuce, Greek yogurt or light sour cream, shredded cheese, sliced jalapeños

Method
 

  1. Prep the basics. Dice the onion and bell pepper, mince the garlic, and gather your spices. Rinse and drain the black beans. This makes the cooking process smooth and quick.
  2. Heat the pan. Set a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil, then the onion and bell pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and lightly browned.
  3. Add the beef. Crumble the ground beef into the skillet. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until no longer pink, about 4–5 minutes.
  4. Stir in the garlic and spices. Add the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook for 30–60 seconds, stirring, until fragrant. This wakes up the spices.
  5. Build the sauce. Stir in the tomato paste to coat the meat and veggies. Add the diced tomatoes and broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Fold in beans and corn. Add the black beans and corn. Stir to combine and reduce heat to medium. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened and saucy.
  7. Taste and adjust. Add more salt, pepper, or a pinch of chili powder if you want extra heat. If it’s too thick, splash in a bit more broth. If it’s too thin, simmer a few minutes longer.
  8. Finish with freshness. Remove from heat and squeeze in half a lime. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top. The acid and herbs make the flavors pop.
  9. Serve your way. Spoon into bowls and top with avocado, shredded lettuce, a spoonful of Greek yogurt, a little cheese, or sliced jalapeños. Or scoop with tortilla chips, tuck into warm tortillas, or pile over cauliflower rice for a lighter base.