Ground Beef Burrito Skillet

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Ground Beef: This recipe shines with ground beef, but you can swap it out for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you’re vegetarian, consider using crumbled tofu or a plant-based meat alternative.

Rice: I recommend long-grain rice for fluffy results. Brown rice is a healthier choice but takes longer to cook. Quinoa is a great gluten-free swap if you want to mix things up!

Black Beans: Canned black beans are a time-saver! If you don’t have them, pinto beans or chickpeas will work just as well. Dried beans are also nice but will require pre-soaking and cooking.

Taco Seasoning: If you’re out of pre-packaged seasoning, try using a blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt instead. It’ll give you that same great flavor without the packet!

How Do I Ensure My Rice is Perfectly Cooked?

Cooking rice right can be tricky, but here’s how to nail it:

• After adding the rice and broth, turn the heat up to bring it to a boil.
• Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, then cover your skillet to trap steam inside.
• Let it simmer for about 20 minutes—no peeking! Uncovering lets steam escape.
• Check for doneness: if the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed, you’re good to go!

Stir gently before serving, as it helps fluff the rice up.

How to Make Ground Beef Burrito Skillet?

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Skillet:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup uncooked rice (preferably long-grain or brown rice)
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 cup beef broth (or water)
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and Monterey Jack blend)
• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
• 1/2 cup corn (canned or frozen)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil (for cooking)

For Garnish:

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 cup salsa (for topping)
• 1 cup sour cream (for topping)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious Ground Beef Burrito Skillet takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook, for a total of about 40 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef:

In a large skillet, drizzle a good amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Use a spatula to break up the meat as it cooks so it cooks evenly.

2. Drain Excess Grease:

Once the beef is cooked through, carefully drain any excess grease from the skillet. This will help keep your dish from being too greasy.

3. Mix in the Ingredients:

Now, stir in the taco seasoning to the beef. Next, add the diced tomatoes with their juices, black beans, corn, and the uncooked rice. Pour in the beef broth (or water) and season everything with salt and pepper to taste. Mix it well so all the ingredients combine nicely.

4. Cook the Skillet:

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed. Make sure to stir occasionally so the rice doesn’t stick to the bottom.

5. Add the Cheese:

Once the rice is tender, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the mixture. Cover the skillet again and let the cheese melt for about 5 minutes—it’ll create a delicious gooey topping!

6. Finish and Serve:

Remove the skillet from the heat, and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro on top. Serve it hot, and don’t forget to add a scoop of salsa and a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor. Enjoy your burrito skillet!

Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef if you’re looking for a healthier option. Just follow the same cooking instructions, but keep in mind that turkey may cook a bit faster, so watch it closely until it’s fully browned.

What Type of Rice is Best to Use?

Long-grain or brown rice works best for this recipe. Brown rice will take a little longer to cook, so you might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes of simmering time. If you’re short on time, minute rice or pre-cooked rice can also work—just follow the package instructions for adding it in after the liquid has been added.

How to Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of beef broth or water to keep it moist.

Can I Freeze This Skillet Dish?

Yes! This dish freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of broth if necessary.